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Plywood Observation Tower Anchored in Local Stone Embracing Natural Landscape

Author:
Anibal Alfonso Torrealba Nunez
Plywood Observation Tower Anchored in Local Stone Embracing Natural Landscape
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A plywood observation tower, highlighted by local stone construction, provides sweeping views of the tectonic landscape while serving as a central hub for visitors exploring the Grjotagja caves and surrounding hiking trails.
5 key facts about this project
01
Plywood observation tower guides hikers safely at night.
02
Local stone integrates the structures with the geological landscape.
03
Three landscape support modules enhance navigability without disrupting nature.
04
The reception area serves multiple functions to support visitor needs.
05
Illuminated pathways provide safety and orientation for nighttime visitors.

The design around the Grjotagja caves combines visitor facilities with the natural landscape. In a location that features rich geological characteristics, the goal is to improve the experience for those walking the trails while offering necessary services. The design connects hiking paths with public transport options, highlighting accessibility and inviting interaction between the structures and the environment.

Central Reception Building

At the core of the design is the central reception building, which stands at a crossroads of several hiking trails. This space provides important visitor amenities such as information services, administrative offices, public toilets, and a café. By offering these functions in one place, the reception encourages visitors to gather, explore, and engage with the natural surroundings.

Observation Tower

Nearby, the observation tower emerges as a notable structure within the setting. Created as a multi-level platform, it offers wide views of the surrounding area. Visitors can observe geological features, including the notable tectonic fissure, from a new perspective. The tower is also equipped with lights that come on at night, providing a guiding point for hikers navigating back to the main hub.

Landscape Support Modules

The design includes three landscape support modules, which fit into the natural contours of the land. These modules help define visitor pathways, making navigation easier while protecting the ecological balance of the site. By enhancing access and improving the experience for visitors, they play an important role in the overall plan.

Material Usage

Sustainability is a focus in the selection of materials. Local stone is used for the reception building to create a solid connection with the surrounding landscape. Plywood features in structural elements like beams and slabs, while the observation tower uses a mix of plywood planks and a semi-transparent polycarbonate skin. This choice of materials meets functional needs and helps the buildings integrate with their environment.

The attention to how the structures are positioned in relation to the natural features emphasizes the unique qualities of the Grjotagja caves area. This design reinforces the importance of nature within the visitor experience.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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