Architect Eldine Heep and designer Klemens Schillinger have created an observation tower in Austria with sweeping views that blend into the forest landscape.

The project is situated on Seekopf mountain in the Wachau region of Lower Austria and is a 16-metre high open steel structure which marks an enticing apex on a hiking trail following the shores of the Danube river.

Its name references the theatrical term used to describe the imaginary boundary between the stage and the audience, the breaking of which signifies direct interaction.

To heighten the anticipation of the ascent, the main views along the four cascading flights of stairs are obscured by a louvred larch wood façade. Only when visitors reach the top, above the treetops, does the full spectacular vista of the Danube valley and the surrounding forest fully unfold.

This project has been longlisted in the small building category of Dezeen Awards 2022.

Architect: Eldine Heep and Klemens Schillinger

Project: The 4th Wall