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Spiraling Structure of Glulam and Steel Offers Elevated Perspectives Over Pape Lake

Authors:
Rachel Luu, Richelle Ng, Tejal Lad, Hugo Lim
Spiraling Structure of Glulam and Steel Offers Elevated Perspectives Over Pape Lake

Project in-detail

A spiraling formation of glulam and steel rises above Pape Lake, providing multiple observation decks that enhance the visitor experience while fostering a deeper appreciation for the surrounding ecosystem.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower's spiral design mimics natural forms, enhancing the connection to the surrounding ecosystem.
02
Constructed primarily from glulam, the structure emphasizes sustainability and resource efficiency.
03
Dual observation decks provide diverse viewpoints of the Pape Lake landscape and its wildlife.
04
Accessibility features are integrated throughout the design, catering to all visitor needs.
05
Informational panels enrich the visitor experience by connecting architectural elements to ecological themes.

## Project Overview

The observation tower at Pape Lake is designed to enhance the visitor experience while fostering an appreciation for the surrounding ecological environment. Standing approximately 50 meters tall with a 50-meter entrance walkway, the structure provides a gateway to the ecological landscape, allowing users to engage with the lagoon and its biodiversity. The design aims to create a contextual observation space that facilitates reflection and interaction with nature.

## Spatial Configuration and Experience

The tower features two panoramic observation decks positioned at varying heights, which offer distinct perspectives of the ecological surroundings without compromising the natural environment. The notched and spiraled form of the structure draws inspiration from natural growth patterns, thus creating a symbolic link between built form and ecosystem. This design approach also supports intuitive circulation, with spiral pathways guiding visitors through the observation levels and encouraging exploration.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

Materials selected for the tower emphasize both aesthetic and functional performance while promoting sustainability. Glued laminated timber (glulam) is utilized for its strength and lightweight characteristics, providing the primary structural framework. In addition, elements such as spruce lumber, steel angles, and rope systems are incorporated to enhance stability and durability. The use of wood contributes to a tactile connection with nature, while steel elements introduce modernity, together supporting the project's goal of harmonizing architecture with its ecological context.

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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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