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Zigzagging Steel Framework Offering Panoramic Views Through Transparent Facades

Authors:
Cristián Valdés, Felipe Quezada
Zigzagging Steel Framework Offering Panoramic Views Through Transparent Facades

Project in-detail

A zigzagging steel framework with transparent facades offers expansive views while integrating seamlessly into the natural landscape, serving as an observation point that enhances the visitor experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
A zigzagging staircase design enhances user engagement with the ascent.
02
Transparent glass panels provide unobstructed panoramic views of the landscape.
03
The steel framework minimizes visual weight, blending into the environment.
04
Bright orange stair treads create a vibrant contrast against natural surroundings.
05
The tower’s footprint adapts to the natural terrain, maintaining ecological harmony.
The Kurki Observation Tower is a contemporary design project situated within a natural landscape, aimed at providing an immersive experience for visitors through a vertical ascent. It serves primarily as an observation point, yet its design extends beyond this functionality to encourage a deeper connection with the surrounding environment. The tower stands approximately 13 meters tall and utilizes a framework that emphasizes transparency and lightness, allowing it to integrate seamlessly into the landscape.

The architectural design features a series of zigzagging metal stairs, painted in a bright orange hue, which not only guides visitors upward but also provides a vivid contrast to the more muted tones of the natural surroundings. The structure's skeleton is constructed mainly from structural steel, ensuring durability and offering a minimalist aesthetic. Glass panels incorporated into the design enhance visibility, allowing users to appreciate panoramic views while maintaining an open connection to the outdoors. The foundation, constructed of concrete, provides stability against varying soil conditions.

Unique Design Approaches

A distinctive aspect of the Kurki Observation Tower is its approach to engaging users through the act of climbing. Unlike traditional observation towers that primarily offer a viewpoint at the summit, this design transforms the ascent into an experience in itself. As visitors navigate the zigzagging path, their interaction with the landscape evolves, creating opportunities for discovery and reflection at different elevations.

The choice of materials also contributes to the project's uniqueness. The use of steel allows for a lightweight yet strong framework, which supports the dynamic design. The bright orange color of the stairs draws attention and invites exploration, setting up a visual dialogue between the structural elements and the natural environment. This design choice reinforces the tower's role as an interactive landscape element rather than merely a viewing platform.

Focus on User Experience and Integration

The user experience is further enhanced by the tower's vertical promenade concept, which encourages exploration beyond the static view. As individuals ascend, they encounter varying perspectives of the landscape, which fosters a deeper appreciation of the surrounding environment. Transparency is a key theme in the design; massive glass panels provide unobstructed views, reducing the visual barriers typically found in similar structures.

Moreover, the architectural design reflects a commitment to sustainability through material selection, focusing on durable and low-maintenance components. This choice not only enhances the longevity of the structure but aligns with contemporary architectural practices that prioritize eco-friendly solutions.

Explore the project presentation for additional insights on the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas that have shaped the Kurki Observation Tower. Understanding these elements will provide a comprehensive overview of the project's design and implications within architectural discourse.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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