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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.

Pape's Spiral Tower is an architectural project designed as an observation point within the Pape's Lake Natural Reserve. This structure integrates seamlessly into the surrounding ecological environment while providing a platform for enhanced interaction with nature. The design leverages a spiral configuration that ascends into the air, engaging visitors with a series of observation points that overlook the lake's diverse habitats. The tower serves educational and recreational purposes, promoting ecological awareness among visitors.

The project represents a commitment to sustainable architecture by utilizing materials that minimize environmental impact while maintaining structural integrity. The primary components of the design include 40 treated pine wood poles, each 15 to 20 meters tall, which form the primary structure and are anchored deep into the ground. The use of Class X30 concrete in the foundation ensures stability while accommodating the natural conditions of the wetland landscape. Metal rods provide additional reinforcement to maintain the tower's structural soundness.

Unique to this project is the focus on blending the structure with its natural surroundings. The design emphasizes camouflage through the use of wood, intended to mimic local flora and minimize disruption to wildlife. This approach enhances the observer's experience while fostering a deeper connection to the surrounding environment. Additionally, the spiral staircase is a noteworthy feature that facilitates movement while inviting exploration, offering 70 levels of viewpoints that encourage visitors to engage dynamically with the landscape.

The architectural design also prioritizes ecological surveying capability, enabling users to observe and study the unique ecosystems that thrive around Pape’s Lake. By creating an elevated platform for interaction, the tower increases awareness of the importance of preserving local biodiversity—a vital aspect of contemporary architectural practice.

For further insights into this project, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the complete presentation. Engaging with the detailed architectural ideas and features will provide a comprehensive understanding of how Pape's Spiral Tower embodies innovative design principles while addressing ecological objectives.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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