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Sustainable Observation Tower Crafted from Heavy Timber and Glulam with Panoramic Views

Author:
Edward Faron
Sustainable Observation Tower Crafted from Heavy Timber and Glulam with Panoramic Views

Project in-detail

Crafted from locally sourced heavy timber and glulam, the tower offers a unique structural design that integrates sustainable practices while providing expansive panoramic views, serving as a pivotal observation point for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted primarily from locally sourced heavy timber and glulam for sustainability.
02
Features a bent A-frame design that enhances structural integrity and visual appeal.
03
Incorporates solar energy solutions to support operational needs autonomously.
04
Observation deck designed for accessibility, including a scissor lift for mobility.
05
Panoramic views from the 14.3-meter platform highlight the surrounding landscape.

## Overview
The Legendary Highway 14 Tower, located in South Dakota, is designed as an observation landmark to enhance local tourism. The project integrates functionality, aesthetic considerations, and environmental sensitivity, aiming to engage visitors while contributing positively to the surrounding community.

## Spatial and Structural Composition
The tower's design features a self-supporting structure primarily using heavy timber and glulam elements, ensuring structural integrity while promoting sustainability. Its height of 22 meters allows for an expansive observation deck at 14.3 meters, measuring 11 by 11 meters, providing panoramic views of the natural landscape. Key exterior elements include large arched openings that connect visually with the surrounding environment and a canopy that offers weather protection while adding to the tower's visual appeal.

## Material Selection and Sustainability
A diverse range of materials has been selected for their performance and sustainability characteristics, including heavy timber, Alaskan yellow cedar, and Douglas fir, among others. The incorporation of solar panels underscores the project's commitment to renewable energy, enabling essential systems within the tower to run autonomously. Accessibility features have been carefully integrated to ensure compliance with ADA standards, facilitating visitor engagement for individuals of all abilities.

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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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