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Spiral Structure Crafted From Weathering Steel and Reinforced Concrete Elevating Biodiversity Awareness

Author:
Alexander Rekhlitskiy
Spiral Structure Crafted From Weathering Steel and Reinforced Concrete Elevating Biodiversity Awareness

Project in-detail

Rising as a spiral observation tower constructed from weathering steel and reinforced concrete, the design enhances accessibility while fostering engagement with the biodiversity of the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed from weathering steel, the tower naturally integrates with its landscape over time.
02
A continuous ramp system ensures full accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges.
03
The design emphasizes transparency through the use of ample glass for unobstructed views.
04
Multi-level platforms offer distinct perspectives of the surrounding biodiversity.
05
Strategically placed observation areas promote ecological education and awareness.

The Kurgi Spiral Tower is an architectural project located within the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve. The design functions as a unique observation point that promotes interaction with the surrounding natural landscape. This structure combines pedagogical purpose with recreational enjoyment, serving as a platform for educating visitors regarding local biodiversity and conservation efforts, particularly concerning the rare horse species native to the area.

The primary form of the Kurgi Spiral Tower is a spiral structure that ascends vertically, comprising multiple levels of viewing platforms. These platforms are seemingly designed to enhance the visitor experience by providing panoramic views and fostering social interaction. The tower's ramp system ensures accessibility, allowing individuals with mobility challenges to navigate the structure without hindrance. This design consideration underscores the project’s commitment to inclusivity.

Thoughtfully chosen materials play a critical role in the architectural integrity of the Kurgi Spiral Tower. Reinforced concrete delivers structural strength, while Corten steel complements the tower’s visual aesthetics by blending with the natural environment. The use of glass in strategic locations allows for ample natural light and unobstructed views, merging the interior experience with the external landscape.

Architectural Integration with Nature

One of the distinctive features of the Kurgi Spiral Tower is its ability to harmonize with its surroundings. The spiral form not only elevates visitors for an expansive view but also minimizes the environmental footprint of the structure. By maintaining a minimalistic design and footprint, the project ensures the preservation of local flora and fauna.

The architectural strategy emphasizes transparency and openness. This transparency is enhanced by the presence of observation areas that extend into the surrounding environment, effectively creating an immersive experience. Visitors are encouraged to engage fully with the natural world around them, reinforcing a sense of connection between the built environment and the ecosystem.

Inclusivity and Functionality

Offering an innovative solution for visitor interaction, the ramping system throughout the structure supports an inclusive experience. Elevators may also complement this system, ensuring that all visitors, regardless of mobility constraints, can access all parts of the tower. This functionality is critical for a site that aims to promote ecological education and attract a diverse visitor demographic.

Additionally, the Kurgi Spiral Tower serves as a focal point for educational programs, fostering awareness about local conservation efforts. The design incorporates elements that highlight the surrounding landscape's ecological significance, encouraging dialogue about biodiversity and environmental stewardship.

For more detailed insights into the Kurgi Spiral Tower, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative architectural ideas integral to its conception, further exploration of the project presentation is recommended. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of the design's objectives and its architectural implications within the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve.

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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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