Schönbuchturm
Herrenberg, Germany

Client

Förderverein Aussichtsturm im Naturpark Schönbuch

Architect

schlaich bergermann partner

The observation tower on the Stellberg at the edge of the Schönbuch nature park in Baden-Württemberg enhances the region as a recreational tourist attraction. Its supporting structure consists of eight wooden masts, three circular viewing platforms, and two spiral steel staircases. The construction is stabilized by a delicate external steel cable network. The platforms are attached both to the masts and to the cable system. The wooden masts, which taper outward as they rise and are composed of individual segments arranged between the platforms, define the tower’s distinctive silhouette.

Glulam made from larch heartwood sourced from the Schönbuch forest was used for the masts. In addition to structural wood protection measures – particularly careful detailing at the end grain and stair connections – special emphasis was placed on ease of maintenance. The supports are designed so that they can be replaced relatively easily to avoid complex and costly maintenance work. The individual mast segments between two platforms can be relieved using presses and replaced without additional tower stabilization. The short segments also simplify transport and assembly.

The foundation required special attention because the Stellberg was formerly used as a soil and waste disposal site, making it necessary to account for ground settlement. Due to its location and distinctive shape, the tower is visible from afar and serves as a landmark for the region. The structure is characterized especially by the innovative combination of solid wood, steel construction, and slender cables, whose interaction creates an elegant yet lightweight load‑bearing system.

Tower height: 35 m
Platform heights: 10 m, 20 m, 30 m
Base diameter: ø 13 m
2 x 16 cables, ø 28 mm, 160 kN preload each
Foundations: Reinforced concrete
Elevation: 580 m above sea level