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Spiral Observation Tower Crafted with Composite Panels and Sustainable Wood for Nature Immersion

Authors:
Kirill Grebenshchikov, Anastasiia Nesterova
Spiral Observation Tower Crafted with Composite Panels and Sustainable Wood for Nature Immersion

Project in-detail

Elevated along a spiral ramp of composite panels and timber, the observation tower offers an immersive vantage point for visitors to engage with the ecological richness of Latvia's landscapes while promoting accessibility and exploration.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower features a spiral ramp designed for all-ability access, enhancing inclusivity.
02
Constructed with composite panels, the design prioritizes lightweight structure without sacrificing durability.
03
Observation decks are strategically positioned to offer varied perspectives of the surrounding ecosystem.
04
Natural wood accents are integrated throughout, creating a seamless connection between the structure and its environment.
05
The architectural form mimics the organic shapes found in the surrounding landscapes, emphasizing ecological sensitivity.

## Overview

The Kemeri National Park Observation Tower, located in Latvia's expansive Kemeri National Park, serves as a functional vantage point designed to enhance visitor engagement with the surrounding natural landscape. The structure prioritizes accessibility and sustainability while facilitating exploration of the unique swamp ecosystem. Its design intentionally contrasts with the environment, serving as both a viewing platform and a hospitality feature.

### Spatial Configuration

The tower features a spiral ramp that leads visitors to an observation deck at various elevations, promoting an immersive experience of the landscape. The ramp's gentle slope, which adheres to a maximum gradient of 8%, ensures accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. Key design elements include a central rod that supports the tower's integrity, cantilevered observation deck sections that allow for expansive views, and a broadwalk that facilitates visitor movement.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration

Constructed mainly of steel, concrete, glass, and wood, the project reflects a modern approach to durability and aesthetic appeal. Steel provides structural strength, while concrete surfaces on the deck ensure resilience against the elements. Glass elements offer transparency, connecting visitors with their surroundings, and wooden boardwalks create a warm interaction with the natural environment. The strategic placement of pathways around the tower promotes seamless integration within the landscape, enhancing access to viewing points without disrupting the ecological setting.

Recreational areas at the base of the tower are designed for rest and learning, featuring benches and educational plaques that highlight the area's biodiversity. This focus on functionality and visitor interaction supports an enriched understanding of Kemeri National Park's ecosystems.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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