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