References

Observation tower on the Thur

Flaach, Switzerland

Beobachtungsturm im Naturparadies Thurauen bei Sonnenaufgang

Thurauen observation tower

As part of the #hallowasser project, a new observation tower – a 15-metre-high timber structure with an unusual design language – was built in the Thurauen wetlands. The “Hyperbola view” design by ETH student Jan Hess prevailed in a competition and was implemented in close collaboration with Blumer Lehmann. The tower replaces an existing platform, which had to be dismantled for safety reasons.

The supporting structure of the tower consists of intersecting larch wood beams that form a hyperbolic lattice. This construction enables high stability, efficient drainage and natural integration into the wetland landscape. Two viewing platforms at a height of 8 and 12 metres offer impressive views of the Thur river and its surroundings.

Two types of wood from our factory were used for the construction: larch for the weather-exposed exterior structure and spruce for the inside of the tower. The structure stands on a robust concrete foundation and is finished with an extensively green roof, providing an additional habitat for insects.

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Project details

Client:
Baudirektion Kanton Zürich, Hochbauamt
Architecture:
Blumer-Lehmann AG
Project type:
Art and culture
Construction type:
Free Form
Services:
Timber construction
Construction:
2024
Locality:
Flaach
Country:
Switzerland

Links

Blick durch die diagonalen Holzstreben des Thurauen-Beobachtungsturms auf Flusslandschaft und Wald im Morgenlicht

The intricate timber construction of the Thurauen observation tower offers a wide view over the river landscape of the Thur and the surrounding wetlands.

Holzbeobachtungsturm von Blumer Lehmann im Thurauen-Gebiet mit markanter, geschwungene Tragstruktur bei klarem Himmel

The imposing Thurauen observation tower, designed by an ETH student and realised by Blumer Lehmann, features an elegant, twisted timber structure.

Detailaufnahme der spiralförmigen Holztreppe mit Seilgeländer im Inneren des Thurauen-Beobachtungsturms von Blumer Lehmann

The elegantly curved wooden staircase inside the Thurauen observation tower leads visitors to the viewing platform.