The Pape Bird Observation Tower is located at the southern edge of Pape Lake. It serves to connect visitors with the surrounding wetlands while providing spaces for observation. The design is centered around the idea of an architectural promenade. It features platforms and vertical circulation that allow viewers to gain multiple perspectives of the landscape as they move through the structure.

Structure and Circulation

Visitors approach the tower via a gently sloping boardwalk that directs them through the tower’s base. This path leads to a lower observation platform, encouraging individuals to explore further. An exterior stairway climbs the side of the tower, allowing for a close engagement with the building. Each step upward offers a new view, enhancing the experience of both the architecture and the wetlands.

Interior Experience

Inside, a secondary stairway weaves through the tower’s structural framework, leading to a cantilevered upper observation platform. This ascent creates an engaging interior experience, inviting visitors to interact with the environment as they climb. The design fosters curiosity and connection, highlighting the relationship between the observation tower and its natural surroundings.

Materiality and Context

The materials chosen for the Pape Bird Observation Tower play a significant role in its integration with the landscape. The main structural element is wood, which is left exposed to withstand the elements. This choice reflects local building traditions, and the exposed end grains feature metal end caps, which add durability. A sloped roof made of weathered steel provides shade and blends with the overall design, reinforcing the tower's connection to the environment.

Design Details

The tower showcases a clear sensitivity to its context by prioritizing visitor experience while respecting the natural features of the site. Tiered platforms and carefully planned circulation paths enhance the connection between people and the Pape Lake wetlands. The cantilevered upper platform allows for expansive views, creating a space for observers to appreciate the surrounding beauty and the significance of the setting.