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Steel and Aluminum Viewing Tower Embracing Natural Landscape with Organic Form

Author:
Sheung ching Lui
Steel and Aluminum Viewing Tower Embracing Natural Landscape with Organic Form

Project in-detail

Crafted with a spiraling aluminum and steel frame, the observation tower seamlessly integrates into the Kemeri National Park landscape, offering visitors a unique vantage point to experience the surrounding ecosystem.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a spiraling ramp to enhance user engagement with the landscape.
02
Incorporates a lightweight aluminum screen that provides durability and visual integration.
03
Features multiple viewing platforms at varying heights to optimize landscape observation.
04
Designed with accessible pathways meeting inclusive standards for all visitors.
05
Uses sustainable materials to minimize environmental impact while ensuring longevity.

## Project Overview
Situated within Kemeri National Park in Latvia, the design responds to the surrounding environment by drawing inspiration from the natural formations of stacked pebbles. The structure serves as an observation point and enhances the experience of the Great Kemeri Boardwalk, offering visitors an opportunity for exploration and engagement with the landscape. The intent is to create an immersive environment that encourages appreciation for the local ecosystem.

## Spatial Experience
The design features a dynamic ramp that winds around the observation tower, prompting visitors to experience a journey through the natural landscape. The spatial arrangement incorporates viewing platforms elevated at 4.5 meters and above, facilitating distinct visual encounters with both the immediate surroundings and expansive horizons. This layering of perspectives allows for a multi-faceted interaction with nature that enriches the overall visitor experience.

## Materiality and Structural Integrity
The observation tower employs a steel structural framework as the primary load-bearing element, ensuring strength and durability. The exterior is wrapped in lightweight aluminum sheeting, which contributes to a modern aesthetic while maintaining visual connectivity with the landscape. Concrete footings provide stability within the varied terrain, and non-slip metal surfaces are incorporated in walkways and ramps to enhance safety. Metal clips and extrusions are utilized in the construction of both internal and external facades, further integrating functionality with a cohesive design approach.

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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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