In the agricultural landscape around the Czech town of Litomyšl, Atelier-r has designed a new lookout tower built from reused shipping containers. The structure is part of Journey to Destination, a long-term project by the city inviting award-winning architects to create small landmarks that encourage residents to explore their surroundings.

A New Landmark in the Landscape

Set on a hillside above Rasovna, the lookout offers sweeping views over Litomyšl and its historic skyline. The architects chose the site for its natural vantage point and the way the evening light highlights the town’s main landmarks. The tower creates a destination for walkers and adds a sculptural feature to the otherwise open agricultural landscape.

Reversible and Sustainable Construction

Atelier-r designed the structure to meet the city’s request for an environmentally responsible and reversible installation. The team avoided permanent foundations so that the site can be restored to its original state if needed. By working within a strict budget, they explored efficient and circular construction methods.

The solution came in the form of shipping containers. These modular steel units already exist in large numbers and can easily be adapted for reuse. Instead of melting them down—a process that consumes up to 8 MWh of energy per container—the architects gave them a new purpose. The containers retain their industrial identity while offering a place for people to stop, climb, and look out across the region.

Circular Design Thinking

The project embodies circular thinking in architecture. It transforms a standard industrial product into a public structure that connects people with the landscape. This reuse reduces the environmental footprint while adding cultural and aesthetic value.

Atelier-r’s watchtower reflects on modern design challenges: globalisation, sustainability, and the creative reuse of existing resources. The result is a modest yet meaningful structure—lightweight, adaptable, and deeply rooted in place.

Source Atelier-r
Photos: BoysPlayNice