Plan - Switchback is a viewing platform for the 2012 Olympic Mountain Biking Cross Country event, reflecting the speed, roughness and the unpredictable natural elements of mountain biking, creating a dynamic viewing experience where you are part of the action and the surrounding landscape. Cantilevered from the hillside over the track it provides amazing views overlooking both the track and the valley, allowing views of other sections of the track and the surrounding area.
Front view - It is designed as a permanent structure that can be used be the local communities after the games have finished, celebrating the surroundings and linking to points of interest, thus having a long term use rather than only having a lifespan as long as the event. The inclined glass floor is textured with the imprints of bike treads providing grip, plus the direction of the bike treads map the trajectory of specific points of interest and landmarks in the surrounding area.
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Viewing Platform visual
Viewing platform visual
Model - At night Switchback will light up like a beacon by renewable energy captured by solar panels positioned on its lower body, energy requirements from these will be further reduced by the use of self cleaning polycarbonate optical lexan glass that will enhance any light given off.
model - Binoculars positioned at the end enable viewers to enhance their view and focus in on specific riders and points along the track and also to explore the views of the surrounding area.
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