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Tensioned Steel and Treated Wood Structure Connecting Marshland Views with Accessibility

Author:
Lorenzo Leggeri
Tensioned Steel and Treated Wood Structure Connecting Marshland Views with Accessibility

Project in-detail

With a design that employs tensioned steel and treated wood to create a seamless connection with the marshland landscape, the structure offers elevated accessibility for visitors to experience panoramic views of the natural ecology.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a wheelchair-accessible ramp with an 8% gradient for full inclusivity.
02
Tensioned steel cables provide structural support while minimizing the footprint of traditional bracing.
03
Treated wood is used throughout to withstand the park's humid conditions, enhancing durability.
04
Four observation decks are arranged radially to create diverse viewing angles of the landscape.
05
The project emphasizes ecological sensitivity by using locally sourced materials and construction methods.
The Observation Tower at Kemeri National Park is a carefully designed architectural project that enhances visitor engagement with the natural environment. Located in Latvia, the tower provides an elevated viewpoint to appreciate the unique marshland ecosystems of the park. This structure functions not only as an observation point but also as a connector between nature and visitors, promoting accessibility and inclusivity.

The design features a ramp that accommodates wheelchair users, with an 8% gradient providing compliant access. The observation platform rises seven meters, designed to offer unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape while minimizing its visual footprint. The strategic orientation of the observation decks facilitates diverse perspectives of the park’s natural beauty. The architectural intent centers around creating an inviting space for exploration, critique, and understanding of the local ecology.

Innovative structural elements distinguish this project from conventional observation towers. The supporting framework consists of four primary towers paired with tension cables. This unique approach allows for an airy and open design, reducing the need for extensive bracing. Such an approach not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also aligns with the environmental commitment of minimizing material usage while ensuring structural integrity.

The use of locally sourced materials supports the project's sustainability goals. Primary materials include treated wood for the walkways and observation decks, steel for the tension system, and concrete for the foundational elements. These selections promote durability in the humid conditions characteristic of marshland while maintaining an aesthetic connection with the natural surroundings.

The project serves as more than an architectural intervention; it is positioned as a community hub and an educational resource. By facilitating guided tours and environmental studies, it fosters a deeper understanding of the local ecosystem. Its inclusive design encourages diverse visitors to interact with nature in a meaningful way.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the Observation Tower’s details, explore the architectural plans, sections, and design strategies presented in the project documentation. These elements will provide further insights into the architectural ideas that drove this design and the implications for public interaction with the environment.
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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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