Outcomes

MagniFIRE seeks to transform forest fire detection by enhancing early spotting capabilities, thereby protecting forests and nearby communities. Utilizing giant movable lens walls for greater visibility and a stretchy fabric facade for both spotter safety and environmental integration, it playfully reimagines watchtower design and functionality.

Project Name

Competition Entry

Architecture

Project Type

Year

Client

2018

Magnifire Watch Tower

Concept

A Forest Fire Watch Tower

MagniFIRE turns the watchtower walls into lenses, which enlarge the horizons so fire spotters can see farther. The lenses move horizontally to scan the horizon, and fire spotters control the movement with the steering wheel. The facade is a stretchy fabric that moves along with the lenses and wraps the stairs, sheltering the spotter as they ascend the tower.

MagniFIRE was created in 21 hours as an entry to the 24 hour competition 24h Fire, reinterpreting what a forest fire watch tower can be.