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Suspended Net Floor and Concrete Structure Interact with Nature in a Unique Observation Tower

Authors:
Pedro Mendoza avila, Romina Ríos valdivieso, Sandra liliana Cueva cortez
Suspended Net Floor and Concrete Structure Interact with Nature in a Unique Observation Tower

Project in-detail

The observation tower's suspended net floor and concrete structure create a unique experience that enhances visitor engagement with the natural landscape of the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
The observation tower rises 35 meters above the landscape.
02
It features a suspended net floor for immersive visitor experiences.
03
An artificial wetland purifies stormwater for agricultural use.
04
The design includes unique intermediate landings for engaging forest views.
05
Concrete and steel are the primary materials used for structural integrity.

The project located in the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve exemplifies a thoughtful blend of architecture and nature. Standing at 35 meters, the observation tower serves as a functional landmark within the reserve, encouraging visitors to engage with the surrounding landscape. The design focuses on sustainability and interaction, providing a space where people can appreciate the diverse ecological features of the area.

Observation Tower

The observation tower is the central feature of this design. It offers multiple viewpoints to take in the stunning scenery of the biosphere reserve. As visitors ascend via the main staircase, they move through the structure and experience a gradual elevation that brings them closer to the natural environment. Each platform provides a different perspective, inviting exploration and connection with the rich landscape.

Floating Landscapes

An interesting aspect of the design is the net floor suspended within the tower. This feature creates opportunities for pauses along the way, allowing visitors to reflect and appreciate their surroundings. The pathway encourages deeper engagement with the forest, enhancing the sense of immersion in the natural world. This thoughtful planning adds both functionality and enjoyment to the visitor experience.

Ecological Integration

A key element of the project is the artificial wetland designed to promote ecological health. This system purifies stormwater, making it suitable for agricultural use and supplying clean water for horses. By integrating environmental considerations into the design, the project highlights a commitment to sustainability while enhancing the functionality of the space.

Spatial Distribution

The layout of the tower is practical and clear. The ground floor includes necessary spaces such as the entrance, elevator hall, and an amphitheater for gatherings. Upper levels offer playgrounds and areas for movement, creating an inviting atmosphere. The combination of concrete for the elevator structure and steel for the main framework provides the necessary strength while keeping with the overall aesthetic requirements.

At the top of the tower, visitors enjoy wide-ranging views that reveal the beauty of the biosphere reserve, encouraging them to pause and reflect on the landscape's varied natural features.

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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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