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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.
The Duality Tower is an architectural project designed to serve as an observation tower that highlights the relationship between humanity and nature. Situated alongside a lake surrounded by mangroves, this structure integrates human activity with ecological awareness. Its primary function is to provide an elevated viewpoint for visitors to engage with the surrounding biodiversity while promoting environmental education.

The design features a spiraling form that enhances visitor circulation and offers varying perspectives as one ascends. This journey is characterized by a triangular prism shape, allowing for both an immersive experience of the landscape and a unique structural aesthetic. The strategic use of glass facades further enhances visibility and natural light penetration, supporting an interactive relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Sustainability is a key aspect of the project. The selection of materials includes cross-laminated timber, wood decking, and straw bales, all of which were chosen for their reduced environmental impact. This approach not only minimizes the carbon footprint of the structure but also aligns with the project’s aim to foster ecological balance within the site.

One of the notable aspects of the Duality Tower is its dual-spiral design. This configuration separates the observer's path from spaces designated for wildlife, allowing for a coexistence that promotes both human engagement and ecological preservation. The inner spiral facilitates visitor access while the outer spiral incorporates habitats for avian species, creating a user-friendly yet biodiverse environment.

Additionally, the architectural design incorporates accessibility features, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can also engage with the structure. The integration of ramps and gathering spaces reflects a commitment to inclusivity, allowing for educational programs and communal activities centered around environmental awareness.

In terms of architectural details, plantings of native flora throughout the site support local wildlife and enhance the aesthetic quality of the structure. The arrangement promotes natural habitats that contribute to the overall ecological strategy of the project.

The Duality Tower stands out in its thoughtful integration of structure, ecology, and community engagement, serving as a model for future architectural projects that aim to bridge the gap between human activity and the natural world. To gain a comprehensive understanding of its architectural plans, sections, and design choices, interested viewers are encouraged to explore the project presentation in detail. This exploration will provide further insights into the architectural ideas that inform its unique design.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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