The Weave Observational Tower is located in the North Vidzeme Biosphere, a region celebrated for its rich plant and animal life. The tower transforms the experience of visiting this landscape, guiding individuals from the wet bog area to the high forest canopy. The design focuses on a ritualistic ascent that invites visitors to engage deeply with the natural environment at various heights, enhancing their connection to the landscape.

Design Concept

The design is centered around a journey through nature, encouraging exploration of different ecological layers. As visitors ascend the spiral pathway, they pass through five distinct levels: bog, forest floor, understory, canopy, and emergent. Each layer offers unique views of the environment, allowing visitors to appreciate the biosphere in all its complexity. This vertical movement enhances understanding of the ecosystem while creating an experience that resonates with the surroundings.

Structural Elements

To support its height and form, the tower incorporates several structural components, such as a central elevator core and hot-rolled steel beams. The tilted columns and diagonal platforms shape the structure, mirroring the natural angles found in the forest. The design plays with materials like semi-translucent membranes and metal mesh, filtering light and creating dynamic shadow patterns. This interplay enhances the spatial experience, transforming areas into spaces for reflection along the journey.

Visitor Experience

Interaction with local wildlife is a vital aspect of the experience. The design features viewpoints that allow visitors to observe the historic Latvian Ardennes horses in their natural habitat. These connections deepen the bond between people and the environment, emphasizing the rich cultural context of the area. Moving from the bog to the elevated cabin encourages a thoughtful engagement with the diverse elements of the landscape.

At the highest point, a cabin provides expansive views across the biosphere, serving as a space for quiet reflection. This structure, along with its wooden ramp, creates a distinct separation between the human experience and the vast natural setting. Visitors are invited to pause and engage with their surroundings, reflecting on the intricate relationships within the forest ecosystem.