The design approach for the tower and the landscaping of the surroundings strives for minimal intervention in the space. The concept envisions a solution that develops on its own based on the needs of hikers and visitors. The design consists of three main elements: the tower, the shed, and the paved area.
The central element of the arrangement is represented by the tower, located in a characteristic karst forested area. The tower is positioned in the southwestern part of the client’s land, right by the highest point of the terrain. Existing stones and rock formations on the site are preserved, serving as a natural element of the surrounding landscape design. The area around the stones and the placed shed is cleared and leveled with a smaller wooden platform that is partially elevated above the terrain. This wooden platform facilitates gathering for hikers and the organization of small events or meetings. The cleared stones around the immediate vicinity of the platform act like an amphitheater, allowing visitors and hikers to sit on the cleaned stones.
The shed opens onto the central leveled and paved area. The shed features an angular volume, segmented with vertical wooden elements. On the side facing the platform, it opens up, thus inviting users to actively integrate the shed into the dynamic space around the tower. The angularity of the shed and its opening connects three fundamental points of the area design: the tower, the platform, and the shed.
The landscaping around the tower cleans the overgrown underbrush in the forest area, while also clearing stones and rock formations. For the purpose of constructing the tower, the shed, and the wooden platform, only the most essential trees are cut down. The hiking trails are cleared and suitably hardened. Seating areas can also be created on existing stones and rocks during dry weather. Additionally, three benches made from stones sourced from the tower location are installed in the area. The stones are arranged in a grid, and the upper seating surface is made from wooden planks. New trees can be planted beside the benches as needed to provide shade for the resting area. The project was awarded 1st prize in a public competition for selecting the most professionally suitable solution for the Bovljek Observation Tower.
