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Bird-Friendly Habitat Within a Modern Octagonal Structure

Authors:
Ruitao Wang, Zhi Liu, Mingxiu Wang, Ruiyang Chen
Bird-Friendly Habitat Within a Modern Octagonal Structure
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An octagonal building enhances urban biodiversity with specialized bird habitats and green spaces, providing a unique high-rise environment for community engagement and office use.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates bird-friendly habitats into a modern high-rise design.
02
Utilizes an octagonal structure to optimize space and light.
03
Features green areas that enhance local biodiversity.
04
Includes movable facades designed to reduce bird collisions.
05
Promotes community engagement with shared natural spaces.

The project "BIRTWEEN" is located along the south bank of the River Thames in London. It emphasizes the importance of blending urban living with natural ecosystems. The design serves both as a place for people to work and live, and as a habitat that supports local bird populations. The aim is to create a building that helps bridge the gap between city life and wildlife, responding to the environmental issues caused by urban development.

Design Concept and Structure

The structure takes an octagonal shape, which is not just for aesthetics but also improves the use of space. This layout allows different functional areas to be integrated efficiently. Important features of the building include an atrium that brings in natural light and encourages social interactions, along with a core tube that provides necessary support. Office spaces are designed with human needs in mind, ensuring comfort and functionality while also accommodating wildlife needs.

Ecological Integration

Ecological integration is central to the design of "BIRTWEEN." The building includes green areas strategically placed throughout the structure. These spaces play a crucial role in providing habitats for birds and contribute to the diversity of local wildlife. The design takes into account the migratory paths of birds, aiming to create a sanctuary within the busy urban setting. This focus on nature highlights the growing recognition of its importance in city planning.

Inspiration from Architectural Typologies

The design draws inspiration from various architectural typologies, such as the Pigeon Tower and Torre di Pisa. These references connect the new structure to historical examples that successfully balanced human needs and avian habitats. By adapting these ideas to a modern context, the building reflects both functionality and a respect for nature.

Innovative Design Features

"BIRTWEEN" includes innovative features aimed at protecting urban birds. For example, movable curtains can be used as facades to reduce the risk of bird collisions, enhancing safety without blocking views or light. This approach goes beyond traditional high-rise designs. It shows a commitment to creating safe environments for wildlife alongside human spaces.

The layout fosters a thoughtful connection between people and the environment, encouraging interactions that care for both urban life and the surrounding ecosystem.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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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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