De Panne, Belgium
The Westerpunt Observation Tower in De Panne, designed by Studio Moto, features a circular concrete staircase that spirals upward, providing panoramic views at various heights and orientations.
At high tide, the base of the tower is submerged, making it accessible only via a jetty.
The design incorporates a series of rest and viewing points along the ascent, enhancing the visitor experience with views of the sea, dunes, and surrounding landscapes.
the base of the observation tower lies in line with the promenade, thus extending the walk. As you climb and descend the tower, you automatically return to the promenade or the beach. The walk continues. The placement of the tower makes the location a link between the different elements.
The view of De Panne is unique, partly thanks to the large nature reserve and the dunes that open up to the beach. This sets it apart from other Belgian seaside towns. The dunes are essentially the city’s main asset.
The construction closely aligns with the dunes in terms of scale, height, shape, color, material, and position, thereby enhancing the asset that makes De Panne so special.
The dynamic character of the construction provides the walker with a maximal landscape experience. The walk along the promenade is currently linear.
The loop makes the walk more dynamic and spatial. Due to the different directions of the stairs, the walker is brought into contact with the various landscape characteristics in a new way while entering the bridge.
It offers new perspectives. At high tide, the structure is partially in the sea, enhancing the overall experience. It forms the connection between land and sea.
Project: Westerpunt Observation Tower
Architects: studio MOTO
General Contractor : Furnibo
Client: Municipality of De Panne and the Province of West-Flanders
Photographers: Michiel Hendryckx, Pink Appartment, and studio MOTO
