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Wing-Like Structure Highlights Local Materials in Accessible Observation Tower

Authors:
Joost Leeuwenburg, Reinis Andersons
Wing-Like Structure Highlights Local Materials in Accessible Observation Tower

Project in-detail

Inspired by the local Pied Wagtail, the observation tower integrates a wing-like structure with wheelchair accessibility and locally sourced materials, creating an elevated viewpoint within the diverse landscape of Kemeri National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the native Pied Wagtail, the design reflects local wildlife.
02
The structure minimizes ground contact to reduce environmental impact.
03
Footbridges and ramps provide full accessibility for all visitors.
04
Solar lighting extends the usability of the tower after dark.
05
Locally sourced materials create a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.

The Moticella Experience is located in Kemeri National Park, a diverse ecological area that is home to various species, including the Pied Wagtail, a bird that symbolizes the region. The project aims to enhance the experience of visitors while connecting them to the unique landscape. The observation tower features a design inspired by the bird, mimicking its form with a fluid structure that changes depending on the viewer's perspective. This relationship between nature and architecture lies at the heart of the project’s concept.

Accessibility Features

The design places significant importance on making the location accessible for all visitors. Footbridges, ramps, viewing platforms, and seating areas have been thoughtfully integrated to accommodate people with mobility challenges. This attention to inclusivity ensures that everyone can enjoy the park and its sights. It reflects a modern understanding of how public spaces should work for a diverse range of visitors.

Environmental Considerations

Attention to the environment plays a vital role in the design. The structure seeks to minimize its footprint by lightly touching the ground, reducing any disruption to the surrounding habitat. Locally sourced materials help the tower blend into its natural surroundings while promoting sustainability. This approach allows the project to exist in harmony with the flora and fauna of the park.

Lighting and Ambience

Solar lighting features are included to add functionality after dark. This aspect of the design enhances the experience for evening visitors. The lights create a welcoming atmosphere while guiding those who explore the park at night. They emphasize the tower’s form and offer a balance between visibility and maintaining the area’s natural beauty.

As the sun sets, the tower casts long, shifting shadows that interact with the landscape, underscoring its connection to the environment and inviting exploration from all who pass.

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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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