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Wooden Observation Tower Featuring Mirrored Perspectives in Natural Landscape

Authors:
Saeid Alitajer, Mahnaz Vanaie, Sepideh Niknia
Wooden Observation Tower Featuring Mirrored Perspectives in Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

The observation tower integrates a rack and pinion mechanism and mirrored surfaces within its wooden structure, offering diverse viewing angles of the surrounding natural landscape while prioritizing accessibility for all visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower incorporates a unique rack and pinion mechanism for efficient vertical access.
02
Mirrored surfaces are strategically placed to enhance the visitors' viewing experience.
03
The wooden structure is designed to blend naturally with the surrounding ecosystem.
04
A focus on accessibility ensures all visitors can navigate the observation levels easily.
05
Multiple observation heights offer diverse perspectives of the natural landscape.

The Kemeri National Park Observation Tower is a structure positioned within the landscape of Kemeri National Park. Its purpose is to enhance the experience of visitors while they explore the park. The design features three observation platforms at different heights, providing varied views of the natural environment. The concept is inspired by the movement of tree trunks, allowing the tower to blend into the existing landscape and resonate with its surroundings.

Design Concept

The design of the observation tower uses ideas from nature, particularly the shapes and patterns found in trees. This connection to the organic forms of the forest helps the structure feel like a part of the landscape. By mimicking these natural elements, the tower encourages visitors to appreciate not just the views but also the deeper relationship between architecture and nature. It promotes a sense of calm and reflection in the beautiful park setting.

Accessibility Features

A major focus of the design is ensuring that all visitors can easily access the tower. An embedded column acts as the main element for vertical movement. The use of a rack and pinion mechanism enables smooth transportation between the different observation levels. This design feature is essential for people of all abilities, making the experience inclusive. Added safety measures, such as a parachute system for emergencies, help to reassure users while they enjoy their time in the tower.

Viewing Experience

The tower is designed to offer interactive viewing experiences. Visitors can choose from standard observation points or look into mirrored surfaces placed throughout the structure. These reflective surfaces create unique perspectives, allowing individuals to see the environment in new ways. The design invites exploration and discovery, enhancing the connection between the visitors and the natural surroundings.

Material Considerations

Wood has been chosen as a key material for the observation tower, highlighting an approach to sustainability. This selection ties the structure to the park's ecosystem and minimizes environmental impact. The natural qualities of wood integrate well with the tower's design, supporting the visual connection to the forest. The material not only adds to the aesthetic value but also echoes the organic inspiration behind the entire project.

The observation tower stands as a distinct feature in Kemeri National Park. Its design reflects careful thought about both functionality and respect for the environment. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the park while engaging with a structure that feels both familiar and connected to the natural world.

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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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