The RSCN, an NGO which manages all of Jordan’s natural resources and protected areas, had for some time recognized the need for a watch tower in Ajloun Reserve. Its park rangers, who watch for poachers, fires, and unauthorized visitors, found it difficult to survey the reserve's terrain by truck. A tall tower structure was needed to more efficiently manage the area. The original design was for a concrete structure resembling a lighthouse.
I proposed this design as a more appropriate intervention, which could also double as a tourist attraction for visitors interested in seeing Ajloun’s forests from above. Budget was a serious constraint, so the Ajloun tower used a light steel frame and recycled wooden cladding.
The ‘viewing box’ is insulated to provide comfort in the winter, and has a large glazed opening to frame the key view toward a new Rangers' Academy to the Southeast. A trap door entrance to the box frees up greater floor area and reduces construction cost by reducing the number of steps necessary to reach the deck.
Status: Unbuilt
Location: Ajloun, Jordan
My Role: Designer, Project Manager
Additional Credits: Client: The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature
Structural Engineer: Mohammad Al-Halawani
Consulting Architect: Aziza Chaouni