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Wooden Structure Surrounded by Natural Greenery for Educational Observation

Author:
Vyankatesh Chinchalkar
Wooden Structure Surrounded by Natural Greenery for Educational Observation
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Elevated wooden platforms provide expansive views of the surrounding landscape, offering a unique educational experience focused on local biodiversity and the heritage of Ardennes horses.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design provides 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Educational exhibits highlight the ecological significance of local biodiversity.
03
First four floors include viewing binoculars for enhanced wildlife observation.
04
Top floor features a private area with outdoor views and a balcony.
05
Constructed with a stable steel frame to support the towering structure.

The Kurgi Observation Tower is located in Kurgi, Valka Municipality, an area rich in farmland and diverse wildlife. Designed to connect with its surroundings, the tower serves educational and recreational purposes. The design aims to provide an elevated view, allowing visitors to appreciate the local flora and fauna, particularly the rare Ardennes horses that inhabit the area.

Design Concept and Functionality

The overall plan centers on enhancing the visitor experience through panoramic views. The tower comprises five floors, with the first four levels featuring educational exhibits that highlight local biodiversity. Each floor includes viewing binoculars to facilitate bird-watching and connect guests to their environment. Accessibility is an important aspect, with an elevator included to ensure that everyone can engage with the various levels.

Material and Structural Details

Materials play a significant role in the construction of the tower. The presentation mentions wooden flooring throughout, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. A steel structure provides stability and supports the open design, allowing for the necessary height and expansive views. The railings feature traditional Latvian architectural details, reinforcing the tower’s connection to local heritage.

Visitor Experience and Aesthetic Integration

As visitors move through the tower, they encounter spaces designed for both learning and relaxation. The top floor is a private area with wooden doors and large windows that offer unobstructed views of the landscape. A balcony extends from this level, allowing guests to step outside and take in their surroundings. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces promotes a sense of connection to nature, making it easy for visitors to appreciate the beauty of Kurgi’s farmlands.

The Kurgi Observation Tower represents a careful balance between architecture and nature. Its design prioritizes visitor experience while celebrating the unique local environment. The details contribute to a structure that invites exploration and encourages a deeper interaction with the landscape.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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