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Spiral Lookout Tower Crafted with Steel and Glass in Harmonious Landscape Integration

Authors:
Ricardo Garcia, Freddy Weishaupt
Spiral Lookout Tower Crafted with Steel and Glass in Harmonious Landscape Integration

Project in-detail

A sculptural spiral form emerging from a robust concrete base and enveloped in glass reveals panoramic views of the surrounding landscape while inviting visitors to ascend and engage with the natural beauty as an observation tower.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower's spiral design creates a continuous ascent that encourages exploration and engagement with the surrounding landscape.
02
Glass panels wrap around the structure, offering unobstructed views while maximizing natural light throughout the interior spaces.
03
A concrete base ensures durability and stability, anchoring the structure in its dramatic topographical setting.
04
Wooden decking adds warmth, enhancing visitor comfort while promoting a connection to nature.
05
The observation platform includes strategically positioned benches crafted from locally sourced materials, fostering community interaction.
The project, known as "Il Fumo Della Grotta," is an architectural endeavor that embodies a thoughtful integration of structure and landscape, serving as an observation tower within a dramatic natural setting. This design reflects a commitment to creating spaces that engage visitors both physically and emotionally, fostering a deeper connection between people and their surroundings. The architecture is characterized by its spiral form, which symbolizes an ascent not only through space but through experience and perception.

Functionally, the project serves to provide an elevated viewpoint for visitors, offering panoramic perspectives of the remarkable landscape that envelops it. At its core, the structure invites exploration and contemplation, directing the flow of movement from the ground level through a series of thoughtfully designed spaces that gradually ascend. Each level serves a distinct purpose, with observation decks allowing guests to appreciate the beauty of their environment from various heights and angles.

Key components of the architecture include a central spiral core, which acts as the backbone of the structure, guiding visitors upward. This form is complemented by strategically placed observation platforms that not only enhance the visitor experience but also emphasize the relationship between the tower and the surrounding topography. The careful arrangement of these elements reflects the project's intention to create an immersive journey, drawing visitors into the landscape rather than merely presenting it.

In terms of materials, the project thoughtfully employs a combination of steel frames, glass panels, wooden decking, and concrete. The use of steel provides the necessary structural integrity, allowing the design to reach its heights while maintaining a lightweight appearance. Glass panels are integral to the design, facilitating natural light and providing unobstructed views of the vast landscape, which enhances the feeling of openness and connection to the outdoors. The warmth of wooden decking adds an inviting touch, offering a comforting contrast to the more industrial elements. Meanwhile, the concrete base ensures a robust foundation, anchoring the tower to the ground and establishing a sense of permanence.

The unique approach to design is evident in how the tower interacts with its environment. The concept of "smoke" serves as a metaphorical device throughout the architectural narrative, suggesting the transient nature of experience. As visitors move through the spiraled ascent, they are encouraged to reflect on the relationships between land, air, and sky, engaging in an intimate dialogue with the place itself.

The visitor center at the base of the tower further enriches the overall experience. Designed to cater to the needs of visitors, it features a café and lounge area that provides a space for relaxation and social interaction. The open kitchen design fosters a sense of community, allowing guests to engage with staff and observe the behind-the-scenes culinary processes. Additionally, efficiently organized office and utility spaces support the operations of the site without detracting from the visitor experience.

In emphasizing user engagement and experiential design, "Il Fumo Della Grotta" stands as a testament to the power of architecture to shape human interaction with the environment. By appealing to the senses and encouraging exploration, the project highlights the intrinsic value of connection—not only to the landscape but also to the journey we embark upon as we move through these thoughtfully crafted spaces. For a more in-depth understanding of the project, including details on architectural plans and sections, I encourage you to delve further into the project presentation and discover the architectural ideas that inform this distinctive design.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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