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Bird Observation Tower Constructed with Cedar Wood and Stainless Steel Emphasizing Ecological Integration and Wildlife Habitat Support

Authors:
Anders byng Strøm, Jens Walter, Fabio Bellini
Bird Observation Tower Constructed with Cedar Wood and Stainless Steel Emphasizing Ecological Integration and Wildlife Habitat Support

Project in-detail

Rising gracefully above the wetlands, this observation tower melds sustainable cedar wood and stainless steel to create a harmonious space for birdwatching while promoting ecological awareness and supporting local wildlife habitats.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The observation tower features vertically-oriented screening elements that serve both as design features and potential nesting habitats for local bird species.
02
Each observation platform is strategically positioned to provide varying perspectives of the wetlands, encouraging a deeper engagement with the surrounding environment.
03
Utilization of sustainable cedar wood in the façade harmonizes with the natural landscape while promoting eco-friendly building practices.
04
A spiral staircase connects the two platforms, designed not only for practicality but also to enhance the aesthetic experience of ascending through the structure.
05
The project integrates community access pathways that are designed to minimize disruption to the local habitat while providing educational opportunities for visitors.
The architectural design project under discussion is the Bird Observation Tower located within the Pape Nature Park wetlands. This structure is conceived as an interactive platform for observing local birdlife while embracing a mission of environmental stewardship and ecological education. The design serves not only as a functional observation point but also as a symbol of harmony between human activity and nature.

The primary function of this project is to provide bird watchers and nature enthusiasts with an elevated vantage point to observe and appreciate the diverse bird species that inhabit the wetlands. The observation tower is thoughtfully designed to offer multiple viewing angles, allowing visitors to engage with the environment from different perspectives as they ascend. This interaction with the surrounding landscape emphasizes the connection between architecture and nature, a core principle of modern ecological design.

Key components of the structure include two observation platforms situated at varying heights. The first platform creates a sheltered area for users, blending a sense of security with opportunities for bird watching. In contrast, the second platform is more open, designed to provide an unobstructed view of the wetlands, facilitating an immersive experience into the environment. This duality is an example of how the design caters to human comfort while prioritizing interaction with wildlife.

The structural integrity of the tower is anchored by a combination of materials that have been selected for their environmental compatibility and aesthetic appeal. Stainless steel is prominently employed for its strength and durability, ensuring that the structure withstands the elements while requiring minimal maintenance. Concrete forms a solid foundation, establishing stability for the tower. Light-weight cedar wood is utilized extensively in the façade and interior elements, providing a warm, inviting material that resonates with the natural setting. The selection of glass for observation panels allows for unobstructed views, enhancing the visitor experience while maintaining a vital connection with the outside world.

One of the distinctive features of the design is its incorporation of vertical and horizontal screening elements. These screens not only lend architectural interest but also serve functional purposes, such as providing shade and acting as nesting areas for local birds. This design strategy emphasizes the importance of fostering biodiversity within the structure, showcasing a commitment to ecological principles. The use of these screens also subtly enhances the experience of moving through the tower, as various vantage points offer differing perceptions of the landscape.

Attention to accessibility is a crucial aspect of the overall design. The circulation within the tower is planned to ensure ease of movement for all visitors, enabling them to navigate effortlessly between the different observation points. This thoughtful approach helps engage visitors in a meaningful way, making their experience enjoyable and accessible, regardless of physical ability.

The Bird Observation Tower at Pape Nature Park is an illustration of how architectural design can thoughtfully integrate with an ecosystem. The project's design approaches reflect a deep respect for the natural environment, exemplifying how thoughtful architecture can support wildlife and enhance human interaction with nature. By fostering an understanding of local ecology and providing spaces for observation, the project challenges traditional conceptions of architecture as merely functional space and redefines it as an agent of environmental awareness.

To explore further facets of this project and see how its architectural plans, sections, and unique designs come together, we invite readers to delve into a more comprehensive presentation of the work. This exploration will provide a greater understanding of the architectural ideas embedded within the Bird Observation Tower and its contribution to both architecture and environmental conservation.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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