ARHIS architects: observation tower in jurmala

'observation tower in jurmala' by ARHIS architects, jurmala, latvia
image © arnis kleinbergs


latvian practice ARHIS architects has completed the 'observation tower in jurmala' positioned within the dzintaru park in
jurmala, latvia. the 38-meter tall structure is enclosed with an open-air cage allowing screened views of the encompassing
nature reserve. lifted on steel pilotis, visitors enter the construct through a discreet stair and continue climbing towards the
pinnacle deck positioned at a height of 33.5 meters, exposed and visible from the ground. twelve balconies capable of
accommodating one or two individuals cantilever outside the rectangular faces, allowing a sweeping vista of the landscape.

the metal framework is clad with narrow wooden strips secured with vertical bands of lumber. the transparency of the elongated
quadrilateral form maintains a delicate presence, minimally imposing on its natural surroundings. the floors are comprised
of an industrial steel grate to maintain an outdoor experience during ascent.



(left) approach from the south
(right) approach from the west
images © arnis kleinbergs


base of the tower
image © arnis kleinbergs


entry stair
image © arnis kleinbergs


observation deck
image © arnis kleinbergs


industrial grates allow transparency between the successive floors
image © arnis kleinbergs


one of the balconies
image © arnis kleinbergs


alcony with corner views
image © arnis kleinbergs


cantilevered balcony
image © arnis kleinbergs



floor plan / level 0
image courtesy AHRIS architects


floor plan / level 1
image courtesy AHRIS architects


(left) section
(right) elevation
images courtesy AHRIS architects


project info:


architects: arhis architects
location: jurmala, latvia
client: city council of jurmala
architect: arnis kleinbergs
project team: ieva stale, andrejs gorodnicijs
structural engineer: grigorijs kameneckis
photographs: arnis kleinbergs