Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Spiraling Concrete Ramp Featuring Perforated Panels and Elevated Viewing Decks for Enhanced Urban Cycling Experience

Author:
Raina Lin
Spiraling Concrete Ramp Featuring Perforated Panels and Elevated Viewing Decks for Enhanced Urban Cycling Experience

Project in-detail

A spiraling concrete ramp with perforated panels seamlessly elevates cyclists above the urban landscape, creating an engaging viewing deck that enhances the experience of navigating through the city.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates a dual-level spiral ramp that functions as both a cycling path and an access route to upper observation areas.
02
Perforated panels are utilized in the facade, allowing for natural ventilation while creating dynamic light patterns within the spaces.
03
The design elevates users above street level, providing expansive views of the surrounding urban landscape that enhance the cycling experience.
04
Concrete is the primary material, chosen for its durability and ability to support the cantilevered ramp system while offering minimalist aesthetics.
05
The project integrates community interaction zones within the first level, promoting social engagement among cyclists and pedestrians.
The project "The Ribbon and the Tower" functions as a contemporary architectural intervention that reimagines the experience of cyclists within urban landscapes. This design serves multiple purposes, including providing a parking area for bicycles and offering a unique viewing platform that enhances users' perspective of their surroundings, allowing them to engage with areas of the landscape that may otherwise remain unnoticed from the ground level.

Central to the project is the integration of a vertical structure, identified as the "tower," which offers a counterpoint to the horizontal nature of the spiraling ramp system, resembling a ribbon. This thoughtful juxtaposition allows the design to assert its presence in the environment while providing essential services to cyclists and pedestrians. The tower ascends from the ground, capitalizing on height to create a distinct landmark that invites exploration and interaction.

The architecture of the project emphasizes simplicity and clarity in form while incorporating a range of materials that enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Concrete forms the primary structural component, ensuring durability and robustness required for the high-traffic nature of the space. Glass is skillfully applied across the tower and ramp to permit abundant natural light, fostering a sense of openness and connectivity with the outside. Steel complements the concrete framework, providing additional strength and stability. Perforated panels are cleverly integrated into the facade, enabling efficient ventilation while creating a visually engaging texture that interacts with light and shadow throughout the day.

The spatial configuration of "The Ribbon and the Tower" has been designed with careful consideration for the user experience. On the ground level, the architectural layout accommodates a multifunctional living space that promotes social interaction and relaxation, complete with seating arrangements, a kitchen, and bathroom facilities. Ascending to the second floor, users find a more intimate private bedroom space that remains connected to the visual landscape through large windows. However, it is at the third level where the project truly comes alive, as the viewing deck offers breathtaking vistas and an open area designed for contemplation and leisure.

The architectural design uniquely addresses the notion of mobility and community engagement. The ramp system acts as both a practical means of accessing the upper levels and a cycling path, effectively blurring the lines between travel and leisure. Users are invited to glide smoothly up the spiraling ramp while simultaneously enjoying the ability to stop and appreciate the views at various points, enhancing their experience of place.

The design philosophy behind this project reflects a contemporary approach to public infrastructure that prioritizes accessibility and user-centered innovation. By marrying aesthetic considerations with practical functionality, "The Ribbon and the Tower" represents a forward-thinking vision for urban cycling spaces, urging recognition of the essential role of architecture in shaping everyday experiences.

The project encourages visitors to explore its architectural plans, sections, and designs in greater detail to appreciate the nuances of its implementation. Interested readers can find further insights into the architectural ideas that underpin this project, enhancing their understanding of how such designs can influence public interaction with urban spaces. For those looking into innovative architectural solutions for everyday challenges, diving deeper into "The Ribbon and the Tower" can serve as a valuable resource. Explore the project presentation to better grasp the innovative concepts at play, fostering a nuanced appreciation for modern architectural practice.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy