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Spiral Structure of Aluminum and Glass Integrates Community Interaction in Natural Landscape

Author:
Junrong Wang
Spiral Structure of Aluminum and Glass Integrates Community Interaction in Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Comprising a spiral form crafted from a structural aluminum frame and extensive glass panels, the design creates a series of observation platforms that foster community engagement while offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a modular approach, enabling easy assembly and disassembly.
02
Integrates a spiral design inspired by natural growth patterns.
03
Features extensive glass panels for optimal natural lighting and unobstructed views.
04
Designed to serve both as a lookout and a community gathering space.
05
Utilizes aluminum and glass to achieve a lightweight yet durable structure.

### Overview

Located in South Dakota, the Minimal Capsule Tower is a contemporary architectural structure designed to explore the relationship between human society and the natural environment. The project aims to create a space that encourages observation and interaction, while serving both as a marker of civilization and a vantage point for experiencing the surrounding landscape. The tower reflects a conceptual framework that intertwines human curiosity with a respect for nature, utilizing modular construction to foster a community-oriented environment.

### Materiality and Constructive Details

Characterized by a slender, spiral form, the tower incorporates a mix of aluminum and glass to achieve both aesthetic appeal and functional performance.

- **Aluminum** is employed in the structural framework for its lightweight and durable properties, ensuring the integrity of the design in varying weather conditions.
- **Glass** features prominently through large, panoramic panels that promote transparency and allow natural light to fill interior spaces, enhancing the connection between the occupants and the landscape.
- **Steel elements** form the core support structure, providing stability and facilitating seamless movement throughout the various levels.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The design includes multiple viewing platforms arranged at different elevations, offering users a dynamic spatial experience. The spiral configuration emphasizes verticality, creating fluid transitions between capsules and stairways.

- **Distinct Sections**: The tower consists of a central frame, ascending capsules, and accessible features such as a lift and ladders, promoting ease of movement while immersing users in their surroundings.
- **Vantage Points**: The lower approach offers visitors a striking perspective of the tower's scale within its natural context, while the upper platforms—featuring expansive glass views—invite reflection on the beauty of the landscape, deepening the connection to nature.

Integrating historical references and organic design motifs, the tower serves both structural and conceptual purposes, grounding itself in the regional narrative while contributing to a dialogue about architectural innovation.

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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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