Richard John Forbes 
Drawing inspiration from natural storm formations, the conical structure crafted from locally sourced clay brick serves as a community observation tower that integrates seamlessly with the South Dakota landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower's design mimics the swirling motion of storm clouds, creating a unique visual impact in the landscape.
02
Locally sourced clay bricks are used to enhance sustainability and connect the structure to its environment.
03
Viewing pods integrated into the spiraled ascent offer framed perspectives of the surrounding terrain.
04
Community artisans participate in the brick-making process, fostering local engagement with the project.
05
An integrated water feature at the base reflects the tower and enhances the sensory experience for visitors.
General keywords
The Storm Tower is a distinctive architectural project situated within the South Dakota landscape, crafted to function as an observation tower and cultural landmark. Its design draws inspiration from the natural phenomena associated with storms, symbolizing a dialogue between human creation and environmental forces. The tower's spiral form and dynamic structure serve to engage visitors while providing panoramic views of the surrounding terrain, including significant landmarks such as Big Slough and Silver Lake.
The design incorporates a substantial ascent feature that allows visitors to reach an observation deck elevated 15 meters, fostering a direct relationship with the landscape. This vertical movement is carefully mapped to enhance visitor experience, offering varied perspectives throughout the journey. The base of the tower features an integrated water element, which enhances the sensory experience and connects visitors with the natural environment.
Unique Architectural Features
A remarkable aspect of the Storm Tower is its conical shape, which is reminiscent of swirling storm clouds and emphasizes both aesthetic and structural integrity. The use of clay brick as the primary material is significant. This choice not only ensures durability but aligns with sustainable practices by utilizing locally sourced materials. The bricks are interlaced, creating interesting textures that mimic natural formations. Steel and concrete are employed to provide necessary structural support while ensuring a minimal environmental footprint.
The integration of viewing pods along the ascent allows for engagement with the landscape, offering framed views that encourage reflection and appreciation of the local ecosystem. The presence of pathways marked with red brick footprints leads visitors toward the base of the tower, establishing a visual connection to the structure and enhancing the overall visitor flow.
Structural and Environmental Considerations
The design of the Storm Tower emphasizes sustainability through a low-impact construction approach. The integration of surrounding landscapes within the architectural strategy ensures that existing ecosystems remain undisturbed. This mindful approach highlights the balance of built and natural environments, reinforcing the project's commitment to environmental stewardship.
The community is actively involved in the construction process, allowing local artisans to participate by crafting bricks for the tower. This engagement not only fosters a sense of ownership but also creates a deeper connection between the structure and its context.
The Storm Tower exemplifies a successful blend of architecture, function, and community integration. For those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of this architectural design, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and ideas presented will provide valuable insights into its unique characteristics and structural considerations.
The design incorporates a substantial ascent feature that allows visitors to reach an observation deck elevated 15 meters, fostering a direct relationship with the landscape. This vertical movement is carefully mapped to enhance visitor experience, offering varied perspectives throughout the journey. The base of the tower features an integrated water element, which enhances the sensory experience and connects visitors with the natural environment.
Unique Architectural Features
A remarkable aspect of the Storm Tower is its conical shape, which is reminiscent of swirling storm clouds and emphasizes both aesthetic and structural integrity. The use of clay brick as the primary material is significant. This choice not only ensures durability but aligns with sustainable practices by utilizing locally sourced materials. The bricks are interlaced, creating interesting textures that mimic natural formations. Steel and concrete are employed to provide necessary structural support while ensuring a minimal environmental footprint.
The integration of viewing pods along the ascent allows for engagement with the landscape, offering framed views that encourage reflection and appreciation of the local ecosystem. The presence of pathways marked with red brick footprints leads visitors toward the base of the tower, establishing a visual connection to the structure and enhancing the overall visitor flow.
Structural and Environmental Considerations
The design of the Storm Tower emphasizes sustainability through a low-impact construction approach. The integration of surrounding landscapes within the architectural strategy ensures that existing ecosystems remain undisturbed. This mindful approach highlights the balance of built and natural environments, reinforcing the project's commitment to environmental stewardship.
The community is actively involved in the construction process, allowing local artisans to participate by crafting bricks for the tower. This engagement not only fosters a sense of ownership but also creates a deeper connection between the structure and its context.
The Storm Tower exemplifies a successful blend of architecture, function, and community integration. For those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of this architectural design, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and ideas presented will provide valuable insights into its unique characteristics and structural considerations.
