Architecture project // Sand-Cast Concrete Observatory with Spiral Staircase Overlooking Diverse Landscapes

Sand-Cast Concrete Observatory with Spiral Staircase Overlooking Diverse Landscapes

Authors:

Fred Leung, Kan Tong

The sand-cast concrete observatory, defined by a spiral staircase and elevated views of North Vidzeme's varied landscapes, serves as a hub for exploration and community gathering.

5 key facts about this project

The observatory stands 31.7 meters tall, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape.

A spiral staircase provides unique vertical circulation and direct access to gathering spaces.

Sand-cast concrete construction reinforces the tactile connection between the building and its environment.

The design emphasizes fluid integration with the existing terrain and ecological context.

A peripheral veranda enhances the transition between public and private areas for social interactions.

General keywords

latvia observatory trail gathering landscape exploration nature kurgi north vidzeme education

Project specific keywords

kurgi sand-cast prefabricated spiral staircase peripheral veranda

Set in the diverse landscapes of North Vidzeme, Latvia, the design integrates a trail and an observatory, inviting exploration and interaction with nature. The main idea focuses on a journey through different environments, allowing visitors to connect with the land and enjoy their surroundings. The project encourages sensory experiences as people walk through the various ecological zones.

The Trail

The trail is a central feature that leads individuals through contrasting ground textures and ecosystems, including farmland, forests, plains, and swamps. As visitors meander along the pathway, they experience a sense of adventure and discovery. Each step offers a new view and a different feel of the land, enhancing engagement with the natural world.

Kurgi Observatory

The observatory functions as both a lookout point and a space for curiosity. It rises to 31.7 meters, designed to enhance the visitor experience with its dynamic circulation and varied floor textures. The height of the structure provides expansive views of the surrounding terrain. As visitors ascend, the upper levels offer a compressed panorama, creating a unique relationship between the built environment and the wide-open landscape.

Gathering Spaces

In addition to the observatory, gathering spaces play a vital role in encouraging social interaction. One such space is a gathering hut, accessed by a spiral staircase. This area is covered and offers comfort for groups to meet. The adjacent peripheral veranda serves as a transition zone, balancing public engagement with the need for quiet moments of reflection.

Materiality and Structure

Materials used in the design include sand-cast prefabricated concrete for the floors and ceilings, ensuring strength and a connection to the natural environment. The lightweight skeletal structure allows the observatory to blend into the landscape. The ceiling features suspended sand-mixed plaster that highlights natural shapes, reinforcing the bond between architecture and its setting.

Overall, the careful arrangement of space, structure, and nature creates an environment that fosters a deeper appreciation of the surroundings, allowing for meaningful experiences and connections as people explore the landscape.