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Petal Structure Utilizing Recycled Plastics Within an Ecological Tower

Author:
Neda Damianova
Petal Structure Utilizing Recycled Plastics Within an Ecological Tower

Project in-detail

Utilizing the form of a flower, the tower incorporates a tiered structure of dark steel and recycled plastics to create an observation space that fosters environmental awareness within the North Vidzeme biosphere reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by wildflower species, the tower's form mimics a blooming flower.
02
Each level of the structure is oriented differently to enhance views of the landscape.
03
The use of recycled plastics in railings promotes sustainable material practices.
04
Dark steel frames serve as both structural support and visual elements.
05
Visitor experience is elevated with a glass-enclosed observation space at the top.

The design draws inspiration from the various wildflower species found in the North Vidzeme biosphere reserve. Set in a rich ecological landscape, the tower embodies the qualities of a flower. It reflects small five-petaled meadow flowers like Liverleaf, Cowslip, and Herb Robert, along with bog flowers like Labrador tea. Central to the design is Agrimonia, a species that influences the tower's tiered structure, representing a step toward sustainability.

Structure and Form

The tower uses a tiered design where each level adds to the overall floral theme. Each tier is oriented differently, creating an engaging visual journey as people move upward. This arrangement shows how the levels are interconnected, mimicking the process of a flower blossoming. A framework of dark steel supports the structure, functioning as both the building's strength and a visual representation of the flower's stem.

Materiality and Sustainability

Material choices are an important aspect of the overall vision. Recycled plastics form the vibrant railings, available in red, blue, and white, including products like Ecopixel. This selection reduces the weight of the structure while promoting eco-friendly practices. Steel mesh is used for the landing floors, ensuring durability while lightening the overall load—a critical factor in achieving the design's goals.

User Engagement and Experience

Visitors use a hydraulic elevator to access each level, leading to a glass-enclosed area at the top. This space includes bar-height seating, allowing people to enjoy panoramic views while remaining aware of the landscape around them. Attention to user experience ensures that individuals feel connected to both the architecture and the environment as they ascend.

Aesthetic and Symbolic Details

There is a careful balance between solid and empty spaces throughout the design, establishing a connection between the building and its natural surroundings. The contrast of dark structural elements against colorful railings creates a visual interest that enhances the whole design. Each level symbolizes ecological growth and restoration, contributing to a narrative that connects the creation of space with the essence of the natural world.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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