Dezeen Magazine

Mirrored viewing platform by Natura Futura is disguised against the Ecuadorean landscape

Projecting over a hillside in the Ecuadorean countryside, this small mirrored viewpoint was designed by Natura Futura Arquitectura as a rest stop for hikers (+slideshow).

Mirrored observation point by Natura Futura Arquitectura surveys Ecuadorean landscape

The Los Rios-based studio positioned The Invisible Portal on a trail that runs between Guaranda and Babahoyo in the Andes mountains.

Mirrored observation point by Natura Futura Arquitectura surveys Ecuadorean landscape

The 13-square-metre structure is made from wood but covered in mirrored panels that reflect the mist-filled valley below.

"The number of people who visit the natural vantage point use this space as a point for meeting and to rest on the grass," said Natura Futura.

Mirrored observation point by Natura Futura Arquitectura surveys Ecuadorean landscape

The mirrored walls are intended to help the observation point blend into its environment.

A small gap in the rear wall of the simple, open-air structure allows visitors to access the wood-lined platform within.

Mirrored observation point by Natura Futura Arquitectura surveys Ecuadorean landscape

Broad steps that double as a bench lead up to the edge of the pavilion, which cantilevers over the hillside.

Mirrored observation point by Natura Futura Arquitectura surveys Ecuadorean landscape

From here, visitors can stand on the wall to get a better view of the forested mountains and sheep roaming the pastoral landscape.

Photography is by Natura Futura Arquitectura.


Project credits:

Architecture: Natura Futura Arquitectura
Collaborators: Ramón Vivanco, Nathaly Gaona, Fausto Quiroz, Herman Laroze

Mirrored observation point by Natura Futura Arquitectura surveys Ecuadorean landscape
Site plan - click for larger image
Mirrored observation point by Natura Futura Arquitectura surveys Ecuadorean landscape
Section - click for larger image