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Vertical Transparency with Iroko and COR-TEN in a Natural Setting

Author:
Michele Del grosso
Vertical Transparency with Iroko and COR-TEN in a Natural Setting

Project in-detail

The twelve-sided observation tower, constructed from Iroko wood and assembled with COR-TEN steel, elevates visitors 5 meters to experience unobstructed views of Kemeri National Park, all while promoting accessibility and blending with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The observation area is 5 meters high, offering unobstructed views of the park.
02
The tower's twelve-sided polygonal design enhances visual harmony with the landscape.
03
Vertical strips create a dynamic facade while allowing natural airflow through the structure.
04
Accessibility features include a wide walkway and ramps to accommodate all visitors.
05
Iroko wood and COR-TEN steel are used for durability and environmental resilience.

The observation tower in Kemeri National Park stands as a designed space that connects visitors to the surrounding landscape. Set amidst a rich natural environment, the structure rises 14 meters and features a twelve-sided polygonal shape. This form supports the overall design concept, which emphasizes transparency and inclusivity. The tower is more than just a viewpoint; it encourages people to engage with the beauty of the park from a new perspective.

Vertical Design Elements

The design highlights verticality with narrow strips forming the tower's casing. These elements create a sense of upward movement. The varying heights of the strips come together to form a double crown at the top, reflecting the tall trees nearby. This connection between the built structure and its environment offers a cohesive visual experience, bridging the gap between nature and architecture.

Enhanced Visibility

A key characteristic of the tower is its permeability. The vertical strips are spaced out in such a way that they allow clear views through the structure. This arrangement fosters a connection with the landscape. Visitors can look out and appreciate the scenery in every direction. The open design also helps manage wind resistance, letting airflow move freely between the strips. This reduces the stress on the structure and contributes to its stability.

User-Centered Access

At a height of 5 meters, the observation area covers 45 square meters and can accommodate up to ten visitors, including individuals with mobility challenges. The open design at this level ensures that sightlines remain unobstructed, providing expansive views of the park. Access to the tower is designed with user experience in mind. A walkway that is 2 meters wide stretches 48 meters and includes ramps with a maximum slope of 8%. Landings measuring 2x2 meters are spaced every 6 meters, allowing for easy movement and flexibility in visitor flow.

Material Characteristics

The materials chosen for the tower support its function and durability. Iroko wood is the primary material, known for its resistance to humidity, making it suitable for the park's environment. Additionally, the connections between wooden components feature COR-TEN steel, selected for its resistance to corrosion. This careful choice of materials reinforces the design's aim to blend with the natural surroundings while ensuring long-term stability.

The observation area features large openings framed by strong vertical pillars. This design invites visitors to engage with the diverse ecosystem, providing noteworthy views of the lush landscape and waterways typical in Kemeri National Park. The tower offers a functional space while maintaining a close relationship with nature, encouraging exploration and appreciation of the environment.

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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

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