Horus is a wooden observation tower located in Pape Nature Park, designed to connect visitors with the surrounding natural landscape. The project focuses on the themes of ascension and descent, balancing the need for social interaction with spaces for individual reflection. Its design takes inspiration from the shape of a water bird in flight, offering visitors a sense of exploration as they take in views of the park.

Design and Access

The tower features a staircase that widens as it ascends, creating an illusion of greater height. This design encourages a journey upward, enhancing the overall visitor experience. A small opening leads to a covered platform that provides an intimate space for observing nature. The upper platform, with a glass railing, blurs the line between the observer and the landscape, allowing for clear sightlines to the park.

Structural Dimensions

Horus stands at 8.5 meters tall, with the first platform set at 4.5 meters and a second platform just over 7 meters high. This elevation provides unobstructed views and aids safety during both ascent and descent. The staircase extends 16.5 meters, ensuring comfortable access for all visitors. A continuous walkway of 38 meters connects the tower to its setting, complementing the overall design.

Material and Aesthetic Integration

The materials used include wooden planks for the platforms and stairs, along with vertical wooden cladding. The wood is treated to develop a grey patina as it ages, integrating the structure with its natural environment. The cladding creates a semi-transparent appearance that mimics nearby reed beds, enhancing the experience of moving through the park. This thoughtful combination of materials helps the tower blend into its surroundings.

Spatial Experience

Horus provides a mix of communal and private observation areas, encouraging interaction among visitors while also allowing for quiet moments in nature. The design promotes a deeper appreciation for the park, inviting individuals to engage with the landscape from various vantage points. Glass railings further enhance the experience, as they remove visual barriers and connect visitors to the natural world.

Every visit creates an opportunity for new perspectives. The changing light brings different qualities to the spaces throughout the day, creating a dynamic experience for those who come to explore. The slanted surfaces of Horus interact with the environment, presenting a visual experience that invites curiosity and engagement.