Draft

The aim of the design was to create a viewpoint using regional materials without felling any of the existing trees. The barrier-free viewing platform branches off from a forest hiking trail and winds its way between the trees to open onto a panoramic view over the Ellbach valley. As the view opens up, the narrow appearance of the platform grows broader, encouraging visitors to linger. This expansion is further enhanced by the parapet on the inclined sides of the platform, which is tilted slightly outwards. Seating is provided so that visitors can relax and enjoy the splendid view.

Construction

The observation deck consists of regional Douglas fir wood for durable weather resistance. A timber framework supports a wooden cage made of square wooden profiles, which form the accessible area and the parapet. The closed wooden parapet protects the front sides of the parapet stakes from the elements while also holding them together. The flooring with parapet was prefabricated in one-metre wide sections at the factory and placed onto the wooden frame without screws.

Fabrication

A 3D model was generated for the joinery so that all wood elements could be precisely cut to size using CNC controlled cutting. The elements pre-assembled in the workshop were quickly mounted on site onto the previously built foundations and screwed together.