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Acoustic Structures and Circular Climb Crafted from Native Timber in a Wildlife Observation Space

Author:
Eric Senne
Acoustic Structures and Circular Climb Crafted from Native Timber in a Wildlife Observation Space

Project in-detail

Crafted from native timber and galvanized steel, this structure features a spiral ascent and integrated acoustic elements, creating an immersive space for wildlife observation in Pape Nature Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced conifer wood to minimize environmental impact.
02
Features a spiral ascent that enhances visibility for wildlife observation.
03
Incorporates sound funnels to enrich the sensory experience of the park.
04
Provides accessible pathways designed for individuals with mobility challenges.
05
Utilizes self-watering planters to support native landscaping while conserving water.

## Overview

The Bird Observation Tower is situated near Pape Nature Park and designed to facilitate wildlife observation and education. The facility enhances the connection between visitors and the local environment, focusing on birdwatching and engagement with native flora and fauna. The design prioritizes sustainability, striving to minimize ecological disruption while providing accessible educational facilities.

## Integration with Natural Features

The tower is strategically located to deliver expansive views of Pape Nature Park, enhancing the visitor experience. Its placement reflects careful consideration of both aesthetic appeal and environmental impact. The structure combines native conifer wood for walkways, galvanized steel for the framework, and sustainable wood planks for flooring, all sourced locally to reduce transportation emissions. Additionally, integrated solar panels contribute to the energy needs of the facility, underscoring the commitment to renewable resources.

## Accessibility and Educational Design

The pathways leading to the tower feature a gentle gradient of approximately 6%, allowing individuals with mobility challenges to access the site comfortably. Design elements include sound funnels that capture and amplify ambient sounds from the natural environment, helping educate visitors about local wildlife and habitats. The observation deck incorporates a spiral configuration, providing varying viewpoints while facilitating a smooth ascent. Higher levels are designed for unobstructed observation, complemented by a pedestrian bridge crafted from horizontally tensioned stainless steel, linking the tower to surrounding areas.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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