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Birdwatching tower crafted from cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles in a natural setting

Authors:
Gonçalo André pires, Sarah jo Thordal
Birdwatching tower crafted from cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles in a natural setting

Project in-detail

This thoughtfully designed birdwatching tower integrates curvilinear forms with cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, providing a unique vantage point to observe the thriving biodiversity of Latvia’s wetlands while harmonizing with the surrounding natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The tower's form is inspired by the natural curvature of the surrounding wetland landscape, enhancing its integration with the environment.
02
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels, the structure offers both sustainability and strength while reducing environmental impact.
03
The use of charred wooden shingles not only provides weather resistance but also minimizes maintenance needs, adapting to the natural elements.
04
The design includes tiered platforms that facilitate varied heights for optimal birdwatching, catering to both casual observers and serious ornithologists.
05
An innovative canopy made from weatherproof fabric allows year-round use, ensuring the space is functional in diverse weather conditions.
The Pape Bird Observation Tower stands as a thoughtful embodiment of architecture that harmonizes with the natural environment of Lake Pape in Latvia. This project represents a careful balance between human activity and ecological preservation, emphasizing the relationship between built structures and their surrounding ecosystems. It serves as a dedicated space for birdwatching, promoting awareness of the rich biodiversity in the area while providing an immersive experience for visitors.

The architecture of the Pape Bird Observation Tower is characterized by its organic forms that resemble natural patterns, seamlessly blending into the wetland landscape. This design approach is integral to its function as an observation point. The elevation of the tower allows visitors to overlook the lake and marshes, facilitating unobstructed views critical for birdwatching. The structure includes multiple platforms, each creatively designed to enhance the observational experience.

One prominent feature of the tower is the enclosed cabin on the first platform, which offers a sheltered space for contemplation and observation. The carefully designed windows provide a range of perspectives without disturbing the wildlife, allowing for an intimate connection with the surrounding nature. Visitors ascend through deep, narrow staircases that replicate the sensation of moving upward through a natural setting. This thoughtful integration encourages a gradual immersion into the observation experience.

The second platform adopts an open design philosophy, providing a more expansive viewpoint while still offering shelter through its weather-resistant fabric. This unique design element allows visitors to feel integrated with the environment, as they can easily connect with the elements around them. The footbridges and wooden stairways are vital in facilitating movement through the tower, connecting the various levels with a design that feels naturally inspired.

Materials play a critical role in the architectural integrity and aesthetic of the Pape Bird Observation Tower. The predominant use of wood not only aligns with the surrounding natural context, providing warmth and a tactile experience, but also emphasizes sustainability. Complemented by steel components that ensure the structural stability of the tower, the chosen materials reflect a commitment to both durability and environmental effects. The use of waterproof fabric in the roof enhances user comfort while maintaining visual continuity with nature. The incorporation of Dentincolor FR Olivine provides a layer of ecological consideration, reacting with carbon dioxide to promote a healthier atmosphere around the structure.

In addition to its physical design, the Pape Bird Observation Tower represents a space for education and conservation. The multi-level architecture facilitates varied educational opportunities, encouraging visitors to engage not just with the act of birdwatching but also with an understanding of biodiversity and environmental stewardship. This project encourages thoughtful interaction with the landscape, cultivating a sense of responsibility toward local ecosystems.

The unique design approaches of the tower are evident in its configuration, where every element, from the materials to the structural layout, serves to enhance the visitor experience while preserving the integrity of the environment. The architecture addresses both functional needs and aesthetic aspirations, providing a model of how design can foster connectivity with nature.

For those interested in exploring this project further, a detailed presentation highlights key elements such as architectural plans, sections, and design ideas. Delving deeper into these aspects will provide valuable insights into how the Pape Bird Observation Tower functions both as a work of architecture and as a respectful participant in the natural landscape of Latvia. Your exploration of this project’s details can further illuminate the nuanced relationships between architecture, design, and the environment.
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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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