The Architectural Design & Research Institute of South China University of Technology has created the Lunar Tower, a striking observation tower located within a mangrove reserve on Hainan Island.
Positioned in the Dongzhai Harbor Mangrove Natural Reserve Area in eastern Haikou, this site is China’s first wetland-type nature reserve dedicated to the protection of mangrove forests.
According to the studio, the 33.5-metre-high tower was envisioned to “evoke the tranquil presence of the moon” set amid the surrounding mangrove forest.
Set near the riverbank at the eastern edge of the reserve, the tower is intended to serve multiple functions, including scientific observation, research, sightseeing, and disaster monitoring.
The tower features a cylindrical form with an outer diameter of approximately 6.5 metres.
At the top of the tower, a circular observation window was sculpted to resemble the full moon, while the interior reflects the shape of a crescent moon.
The tower’s perforated exterior is crafted from low-reflective white aluminium panels, featuring an animated pattern inspired by the distinctive leaves of mangrove trees.
The foyer at ground level is situated at the highest river tide point. Rising from this entry, three viewing platforms are arranged at varying heights, each connected by a central spiralling staircase.
The lowest observation platform, located 12 metres above ground, faces west toward the mangrove forest, making it an ideal spot for observing both the mangrove ecosystem and migratory birds up close.
Higher up, a long rectangular opening at 24 metres forms a platform with views stretching over the forest and towards distant villages.
At the summit, a circular platform provides sweeping vistas of the dense mangrove canopy, the city beyond, and the sea stretching past the river.
“Because the observation tower stands within a mangrove ecological reserve, its design needed to minimise environmental impact while establishing a landmark presence for the protected site,” stated the Architectural Design & Research Institute of South China University of Technology (SCUTAD).
“Our intention is to foster
