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Biomimetic Design Featuring Powder-Coated Aluminum and Leaf-Inspired Projections for Wildlife Observation

Authors:
John Yurchyk, Jordan Kasten-krause
Biomimetic Design Featuring Powder-Coated Aluminum and Leaf-Inspired Projections for Wildlife Observation
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Utilizing powder-coated aluminum and biomimetic leaf projections, the observation tower offers a seamless integration with its natural surroundings, aimed at enhancing the wildlife viewing experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Camouflaged façade features digitally printed leaf patterns to blend with the natural environment.
02
Observation decks at varying heights provide optimal views while minimizing human impact on wildlife.
03
Spiral staircase design reduces structural footprint while enhancing accessibility.
04
Modular assembly allows for future expansions or modifications with minimal disruption.
05
Incorporates retractable awnings for comfort and privacy during wildlife observations.

### Project Overview

The A Replacement Bird Observation Tower is situated within Pape Nature Park, designed to enhance visitors' experiences with the natural environment while serving dual roles as both a birdwatching platform and an educational resource. The design prioritizes functionality and aesthetic coherence, aiming to integrate the built structure with its surrounding ecosystem.

### Spatial Configuration and Access

The tower's layout comprises distinct functional areas, promoting a comprehensive user experience. A central spiral staircase provides vertical circulation across three levels, optimizing the structure's footprint while ensuring accessibility for individuals with varying physical abilities. Multiple observation decks, positioned at varying heights, facilitate expansive views of the park and incorporate adjustable awnings for visitor comfort. Custom aluminum benches are also provided to encourage longer stays and social interaction among users.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The architectural design employs a range of sustainable materials to reinforce its integration with the natural landscape. Powder-coated aluminum serves as the primary structural material due to its lightweight and low-maintenance qualities, while digitally printed raw aluminum sheets create unique, nature-inspired patterns for the cladding. Reinforced concrete serves as a robust foundation, ensuring stability throughout the structure's lifespan. The construction approach favors prefabricated components, which minimizes waste and enhances efficiency during onsite assembly. This kit-of-parts method supports future modifications and expansions while maintaining a low impact on the environment.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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