This international design competition submittal for the Kemeri Park Observation Tower revisited the idea of an observation tower with disabled access throughout. By placing a tower on its side, the visitor is able to enjoy the journey with visual opportunities available along the way. The fully accessible ‘tower’ is entered from a single point, then two paths diverge with one rising for a territorial view and one gently sloping downward to just above ground or water level. This duality creates a unique experience at each location while compelling the visitor to decide if the top view or a secluded lower area is the better destination.
The submittal was designed in a charrette format with five designers participating (Rory Heggie, Jose Gallegos, Ben Millick, Jorge Hernandez, Andres Vasquez).
Though not built, the recommended budget was $50,000.