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Biomimetic Tower of Steel Blades and Local Timber in Wetland Observation

Authors:
James Harper, Alasdair Ross
Biomimetic Tower of Steel Blades and Local Timber in Wetland Observation
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A biomimetic observation tower, characterized by its slender steel blades and locally sourced timber, rises above the wetlands to provide an immersive vantage point for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Biomimetic design inspired by local reeds enhances the connection between structure and environment.
02
Tapered steel blades provide structural support while minimizing visual obstruction for enhanced birdwatching.
03
A circular staircase promotes engagement with the interior space and offers varied perspectives of the surroundings.
04
Locally sourced timber is used for flooring and railings, contributing to sustainability and regional identity.
05
Open viewing platforms allow for direct interaction with environmental elements, enriching the user experience.

### Project Overview
The bird observation tower, situated on the southern shore of Pope’s Lake within Pope Nature Park, is designed to integrate with the surrounding wetlands while enhancing the experience for visitors. The structure facilitates birdwatching and serves as an educational platform to promote awareness of local ecosystems. This design merges functional requirements with aesthetic considerations and ecological sensitivity.

### Material Selection
The project's construction materials prioritize sustainability and durability. Key components include:

1. **Steel Blades**: Vertical steel elements form the tower's perimeter, providing structural integrity while offering unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
2. **Local Timber**: Incorporated in flooring and staircases, local timber contributes warmth and tactile quality, enhancing the welcoming atmosphere for users.

The combination of the industrial nature of steel and the organic characteristics of timber achieves a balance between strength and natural texture.

### Structural and User Experience
The observation tower is characterized by its slender form, with steel blades that taper towards the top, echoing the movement of reeds and ensuring structural stability against environmental forces. A circular staircase spirals upwards, providing access to multiple observation decks and facilitating panoramic views of the wetlands.

Upon entering the tower, visitors experience a spatial composition that highlights openness and light. The contrast of timber and steel enriches the interior, creating a layered sensory experience. The strategically placed viewing platforms promote activities such as birdwatching and contemplation, allowing users to engage with natural elements like light and sound, thereby enhancing their connection to the environment.

Unique features of the design include its contextual integration with the park's topography, dynamic form that redirects wind while ensuring safety, biomimicry principles inspired by nesting behaviors, and a user-centric approach that accommodates diverse visitor needs.

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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.

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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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