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Spiral Observation Tower Constructed from Treated Pine and Concrete in an Ecological Wetland Environment

Authors:
Nuno Costa, Luís Guedes de Carvalho, Francisco Guedes de Carvalho, Maura Silva
Spiral Observation Tower Constructed from Treated Pine and Concrete in an Ecological Wetland Environment

Project in-detail

Constructed from treated pine and anchored with concrete, the spiral observation tower rises above Pape’s Lake, offering 70 distinct viewpoints that facilitate ecological engagement and promote awareness of local biodiversity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with 40 treated pine poles, each 15 to 20 meters tall, providing structural stability.
02
The design features 70 distinct viewpoints, enhancing visitor interaction with the surrounding environment.
03
Anchored in concrete, the foundation is designed to accommodate the wetland's soil conditions.
04
Natural camouflage techniques visually merge the tower with the surrounding landscape, minimizing ecological disruption.
05
The spiral form encourages dynamic movement, allowing visitors to engage with the ecological context at varying heights.

### Overview

Pape's Spiral Tower is situated in the Pape’s Lake Natural Reserve, strategically positioned at the intersection of an ecological transition zone and an aquatic environment. The project aims to establish an observation point that enhances both the aesthetic experience and educational engagement with the surrounding ecosystem. This design considers the dynamic relationship between land and water, as well as the diverse flora and fauna present in the area.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The Spiral Tower features a distinctive spiral structure, comprising 70 steps that facilitate a range of perspectives and interactions with the environment. This design not only allows users to ascend and engage with varying heights but also invites exploration akin to the movements of local bird species. Each level of the tower offers 70 unique viewpoints, encouraging visitors to appreciate the ecological diversity of Pape’s Lake. The carefully crafted spiral staircase, designed to evoke a sense of ascending infinity, enhances the overall user experience by encouraging upward movement and exploration.

### Material Integrity and Ecological Considerations

The choice of materials reflects a commitment to durability and ecological sensitivity. The tower is constructed from treated pine wood, chosen for its moisture resistance, which is essential for long-term structural integrity. The foundational elements utilize Class X30 concrete to ensure stability, complemented by metal reinforcements around the wood poles. Additionally, these materials are arranged in a manner that camouflages the structure within its natural setting, minimizing visual impact and supporting wildlife observation. The thoughtful integration of these elements underscores the project's aim to harmonize architectural design with ecological stewardship.

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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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