Project overview: The Kurgi Observation Tower is set on a horse farm in Latvia’s North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve, a large nature conservation area at the Estonian border. The tower is part of an ecotourism concept for visitors to experience and gain appreciation for the endangered horses, as well as the beautiful landscape.
Project location: Ērģeme Parish, Latvia
Firm name: Office for Design Research + Raconteur Design
Project type: Observation Tower
Project information: New construction
Jury comments: Though the jury was conflicted on elevating folly projects in the context of so many pressing social and civic issues, the need for spaces to simply sit and breathe (especially in light of the pandemic) are invaluable for our well-being. The project is a testament to the enduring allure of a good poetic allegory and a beautiful composition that reframes architecture as an active, living character evolving with the seasons and through time.
