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Wrapping Skin and Local Stones Enriching Vertical Ascent in the Landscape

Authors:
Kristian Hager, Ian Kienbaum
Wrapping Skin and Local Stones Enriching Vertical Ascent in the Landscape
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The twisting skin of local stones guides visitors on a vertical ascent, creating a reflective space that harmonizes with the Latvian landscape while serving as a gathering point for observation and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure's skin twists to create dynamic views throughout the ascent.
02
Local stones provide a tactile connection to the surrounding landscape.
03
The vertical journey emphasizes important visual moments of the countryside.
04
An inviting top space encourages reflection and engagement with nature.
05
The design balances transparency and enclosure using a wrapping screen.

The 100 Step Tower is located in the Latvian countryside and serves as a gathering point for visitors. Its design emphasizes a strong connection to the landscape while encouraging contemplation and interaction. A twisting and wrapping skin forms the structure, inviting people to climb upwards and engage with both nature and their own thoughts.

Architecture Concept

The tower's vertical form is designed to enhance views of the surrounding area, including nearby horses and the farmstead. This focus on the environment enriches the experience for visitors, making the journey as important as the destination. The space functions both as an observation point and a place for reflection, inviting individuals to connect with their surroundings.

Materials

Material choice plays an important role in the project. Local stones are used for construction, helping to tie the structure to its setting. This selection of materials fosters a sense of belonging within the landscape. The wrapping screen adds an interesting element, balancing openness and enclosure as visitors move upward.

Experiential Journey

The vertical journey within the tower is carefully designed to provide a unique experience. As people ascend, there are moments embedded in the design that encourage visitors to stop and take in the beauty of their surroundings. Each pause draws attention to elements of the landscape, allowing for a deeper interaction with nature that unfolds throughout the climb.

At the top of the tower, a warm and inviting space awaits visitors. It offers a place to pause, reflect, and enjoy panoramic views of the Latvian countryside. This area serves as a fitting conclusion to the ascent, enhancing the connection to the natural world that the journey has fostered.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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