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Spiraling Observation Tower Crafted From Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wood Shingles

Authors:
Karin Abe, Afifah Azzahra, Isabelle Thamie Saraiva Nobayashi, Ryo Murata
Spiraling Observation Tower Crafted From Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wood Shingles

Project in-detail

Crafted with cross-laminated timber panels and charred wood shingles, the spiraling observation tower integrates seamlessly into the mangrove landscape while providing an immersive space for ecological education and wildlife observation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from locally sourced cross-laminated timber to minimize environmental impact.
02
Designed with a dual-spiral layout to separate human pathways from wildlife habitats.
03
Incorporates habitat niches within its structure to support local avian species.
04
Features ramps for universal accessibility, enhancing visitor engagement with nature.
05
Emphasizes sustainable construction methods, using materials with low carbon footprints.

### Overview

The Duality Tower is situated within a lush ecosystem comprising mangroves and a lake, aiming to facilitate the coexistence of natural environments and human activities. This architectural project functions as a dual spiraling observation tower, designed to offer visitors immersive engagement with the area's rich biodiversity while presenting a striking architectural presence.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

Central to the tower's design is its unique triangular prism shape, which spirals upward to create a continuous circulation path for visitors. As individuals ascend, they experience shifting viewpoints, transitioning from ground-level perspectives of the wetlands to elevated panoramas of the broader landscape. The design encourages exploration and interaction, allowing for varied experiences that deepen the connection between the observer and the surrounding environment.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The materials selected for construction include cross-laminated timber, wood decking, and straw bales, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and minimizing the carbon footprint. Transparent glass facades serve to enhance the flow of natural light while maintaining visual connections with the exterior landscape. Furthermore, integrated faux habitats support local fauna, establishing the tower not only as a human observatory but as a refuge for wildlife. Planting areas featuring indigenous flora promote biodiversity and contribute to the ecological integrity of the site.

Through its structural composition and innovative use of materials, the Duality Tower exemplifies a harmonized approach to architecture that prioritizes both user engagement and environmental stewardship.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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