Located in Gisselfeld Klosters Skove, Denmark, the Forest Tower, designed by Effekt architecture studio, was completed in 2019. This 45-meter-high tower offers a unique nature immersion experience, allowing visitors to gradually ascend to a panoramic viewpoint with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and beyond.
The Forest Tower’s distinctive feature is its innovative design, seamlessly integrating with the natural environment. The structure, predominantly made of corten steel and wood, features a spiraling walkway wrapping around the tower, making the ascent accessible to people of all ages and abilities. This design choice not only encourages direct interaction with the surroundings but also emphasizes the journey as an integral part of the experience.
Architecturally, the tower represents an interesting example of how architecture can harmonize with nature without dominating it. The use of corten, a material known for its earth-like color, and wood, gives the structure an appearance that evolves over time, reflecting the seasons and the natural aging process. This approach renders the Forest Tower a dynamic piece, constantly evolving, mirroring the changing landscape around it.
Effekt’s idea was to create not just a tourist attraction, but a place for reflection and contemplation, where architecture serves as a conduit for a deeper and more meaningful nature experience. The result is a structure that, despite its grandeur, manages to respect and enhance the natural context it inhabits.
From a critical perspective, the Forest Tower can be seen as a successful experiment in integrating architecture and landscape. However, it is also possible to question how such projects influence the perception of the natural landscape and whether the insertion of highly visible architectural structures can alter the authentic experience of nature.
