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Biomimetic Pyramidal Structure Featuring Native Reed Roofing for Community Bird Observation

Authors:
Yuting Zhang, Hyungho Joo
Biomimetic Pyramidal Structure Featuring Native Reed Roofing for Community Bird Observation

Project in-detail

Constructed with biomimetic design principles and native reed roofing, the triangular observation tower elevates visitors above the wetland to enhance birdwatching experiences while fostering community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Biomimetic design inspired by bird wing forms enhances visual interaction with the natural environment.
02
Native reed roofing integrates with the wetland ecosystem, promoting ecological harmony.
03
The triangular pyramidal shape offers multiple elevated viewing platforms for diverse sightlines.
04
Construction employs lightweight timber for structural efficiency and reduced ecological impact.
05
Community-centered spaces facilitate educational programs on local biodiversity and conservation.

## Overview

The Pape Bird Observation Tower is situated in Latvia, strategically positioned to enhance bird-watching experiences while establishing a strong connection to the adjacent wetland ecosystem. The intent of the design is to create an engaging space that fosters ecological sensitivity and community involvement through its architectural form and function.

### Spatial Configuration

The internal layout of the observation tower features multiple viewing platforms and terraces, allowing visitors to engage in a variety of activities from casual observation to structured educational programs. This three-dimensional arrangement promotes social interaction among visitors and provides an inclusive experience. Open spaces within the design effectively merge interior and exterior environments, encouraging interaction with the surrounding natural landscape.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The material selection for the tower prioritizes environmental compatibility and aesthetic alignment with the wetland context.

- **Wood Structure:** The primary construction material is robust timber, chosen for its lightweight properties and ability to create a warm aesthetic, establishing a connection to the natural environment.

- **Phragmites australis:** Native reeds are utilized for roofing, integrating the structure with the local ecosystem while enhancing insulation and camouflage.

- **Glass Elements:** Transparent sections are incorporated to maintain visual connections with the surrounding landscape and facilitate natural light infiltration.

- **Steel Components:** Employed for structural support, the steel elements ensure stability while maintaining a delicate architectural profile.

The design emphasizes low-impact construction methods and utilizes sustainable materials to minimize ecological disruption, while the tiered platforms enhance the visitor experience by offering varied perspectives for wildlife observation.

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

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Competition organisers

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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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