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Rope Panels and Natural Light in a Landscape Observatory

Authors:
Corentin Favreau, Maxime Terriac
Rope Panels and Natural Light in a Landscape Observatory
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The use of rope panels to filter natural light creates a unique visual experience in a landscape observatory designed to engage visitors with the surrounding environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique rope panel facade allows natural light modulation throughout the building.
02
Features distinct 360-degree views from multiple levels to enhance visitor engagement.
03
Incorporates a specialized water recuperation system for sustainability.
04
Openwork brick walls provide texture and allow light penetration.
05
Central concrete core supports a double helix staircase for efficient circulation.

The Kurgi Farm Observatory is located in a vibrant landscape filled with colorful textures and dramatic views. Designed to serve multiple purposes, it includes spaces for observation, dining, reading, and exhibitions. The design concept focuses on blending the building into its natural environment, showcasing a patchwork style that enhances its visual appeal while inviting interaction with the surroundings.

Facade Composition

The observatory features a facade made up of six different panels that transition in color from dark to light. This arrangement mimics the natural hues found in the landscape, helping the structure to integrate visually. The design effectively controls light, allowing it to change throughout the day. As sunlight passes through the facade, varying patterns of light and shadow create a dynamic atmosphere within the spaces.

Spatial Organization

Inside, the observatory is organized in a way that prioritizes usability and flow. It incorporates an observatory, a canteen, a library, and a reception area, all arranged within a straightforward layout. A central vertical core provides access via elevators and a double "Chambord" staircase. This core facilitates movement between levels and encourages visitors to explore the building, making it more inviting for users.

Structural Elements

The building's structure relies on a concrete core, ensuring stability and strength. This core supports various activities throughout the observatory, from public spaces to private areas. Each floor has concrete crowns that define the different spaces, providing a feeling of structure while also offering clarity as visitors navigate. The warm touch of wooden flooring contrasts nicely with the concrete, creating a balanced experience.

Sustainability Features

A water recuperation system plays an important role in the observatory's design, aligning with a commitment to sustainability. This system helps reduce the use of resources and aids in the building's overall efficiency. Openwork brick walls provide both texture and natural light, enhancing the overall experience inside.

At the top, a well-considered roof design collects rainwater through the central core and supports the observatory’s sustainable practices. This detail reflects the project’s aim of creating a close relationship between the building and its landscape, demonstrating how architecture can coexist with nature in a meaningful way.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

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

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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