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Rope-Enabled Canopies Above Rustic Wood Decks in Nature-Focused Observation Tower

Authors:
Juan Carlos Naranjo, Daniel Pineda
Rope-Enabled Canopies Above Rustic Wood Decks in Nature-Focused Observation Tower

Project in-detail

The observation tower employs a series of ropes to create a permeable canopy, allowing for expansive views while fostering a deep connection with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rope elements create a dynamic facade that integrates with the natural surroundings.
02
Cantilevered platforms offer unobstructed 360-degree views of the park.
03
The spiral floor plan enhances visitor engagement as they ascend.
04
Sheltered viewing areas provide comfort during inclement weather.
05
Upper platform mimics the form of a bird’s nest, promoting a sense of safety.

The Pape Natural Park Observation Tower is situated within the lush landscape of Pape Natural Park and serves as a viewpoint for visitors to connect with nature. The design concept takes inspiration from how birds build their nests, focusing on weaving and enclosure. This approach results in a structure that enhances the experience of observing the scenic surroundings.

Design Inspiration

The design reflects the natural behavior of birds creating nests, where weaving plays a key role. A series of ropes act as an adaptable wall, allowing visitors to feel as though they are part of the landscape. The platforms jut out into the air, providing wide views of the park and promoting an immersive observation experience. Each level offers a different perspective, encouraging exploration from all angles.

Structural Elements

Steel and concrete form the primary materials for the tower. Steel provides the required support for the platforms, while concrete foundations ensure stability. Wooden decks connect the various levels and add a warmer touch to the design. Ropes are thoughtfully integrated to create a sense of movement and guide visitors, enhancing the weaving metaphor that informs the overall concept.

Functional Layout

The interior layout of the observation tower is designed in a spiral format, which promotes movement and curiosity. As visitors ascend, they encounter multiple viewing platforms, each presenting unique vistas. The top platform allows for a full view of the park, while lower levels offer sheltered areas in case of rain. This arrangement fosters an engaging experience, inviting visitors to appreciate the richness of the environment.

The superior platform resembles a bird's nest, making it a cozy and safe place to observe. The mix of ropes and open views reinforces the bond between the structure and surrounding nature, allowing people to take in the beauty of the landscape from a thoughtful perspective.

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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

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