
Architecture Above: 25 Observation Towers Around the World

The desire to see the world from above transcends cultures and time — an almost instinctive impulse to seek new horizons, gain perspective, and momentarily step outside everyday life. Observation towers embody that desire: built in forests, mountains, urban parks, or coastal landscapes, they invite us to pause, look closely, and discover the surroundings in a quiet or playful way. These structures offer more than just views; they offer experiences. As we climb their steps or ramps, our bodies take part in a ritual of transition — from ground to sky.
Wonder Cabinet / AAU ANASTAS

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Architects: AAU ANASTAS
- Area: 950 m²
- Year: 2023
House Azóia AIP / João Tiago Aguiar, Arquitectos
Refracting Light and Redefining Space: Glass Bricks in Contemporary Interiors

Glass bricks have been widely used in architecture, eventually becoming a staple of the 1980s architectural styles. Some examples of construction with this material could be the classic "Maison de Verre" by Pierre Chareau and Bernard Bijvoet in Paris or the more modern take of Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP with the Optical Glasshouse in Japan. In recent years, glass bricks are becoming increasingly popular, no longer relegated to older aesthetics. Instead, they have evolved into versatile design elements that bring light, texture, and character into contemporary interiors. Their ability to diffuse natural and artificial light while maintaining privacy has reignited interest among designers seeking innovative ways to enhance indoor spaces while taking advantage of natural light.
Back to Front House / Ian Moore Architects

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Architects: Ian Moore Architects
- Area: 110 m²
- Year: 2024
House and Office in Hokusetsu / FujiwaraMuro Architects

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Architects: FujiwaraMuro Architects
- Area: 91 m²
- Year: 2024
Guizhou Media Vocational and Technical School Library & Information Center / West-line studio

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Architects: West-line studio
- Area: 18876 m²
- Year: 2025
SABHĀ Specialty Coffee / NaaV Studio

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Architects: NaaV Studio
- Area: 3500 ft²
- Year: 2025
Barreiros Association Office / Dall'Ovo Magalhães Arquitetura
Vidy Theater Renovation and Extension / PONT12 architectes

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Architects: PONT12 architectes
- Area: 5196 m²
- Year: 2023
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Manufacturers: Bator, Feller, Hadler GmbH, Indelague, Kaestli storen, +2
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Professionals: EDMS SA, Jakob Forrer SA, Thorsen Sàrl, BA Consulting, Yves Deillon, +4
Villa O / YCL studio

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Architects: YCL studio
- Area: 237 m²
- Year: 2024
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Manufacturers: Brolis Timber, UAB, Doleta, UAB
Ironbark House / Studio Carson Kelly
Housing Črnuški Bajer / Bevk Perović arhitekti + Arhitekti Počivašek Petranovič

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Architects: Arhitekti Počivašek Petranovič, Bevk Perović arhitekti
- Area: 23285 m²
- Year: 2024
Wintercircus Technological and Cultural Hub / OYO
Rainbow International School / Spacefiction studio
Ts VEIL Restaurant / KHOA VU

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Architects: KHOA VU
- Area: 300 m²
- Year: 2025
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Manufacturers: Dai Gia Phuc Co., Ltd, Dong Tam Group, Inosteel, Spraying Systems
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Professionals: Pham Gia Technology Co., Ltd, An Cường Wood Working JSC























