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Charred Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Enclosed in a Scenic Wetland Observation Tower

Authors:
Anders Byng Strøm, Jens Walter, Fabio Bellini
Charred Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Enclosed in a Scenic Wetland Observation Tower
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Combining charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the observation tower integrates seamlessly into the wetlands, providing a dedicated space for birdwatching and ecological education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce environmental impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes panoramic views of the wetlands.
04
Integrates bird habitats within the structure to promote local biodiversity.
05
Utilizes permeable screens that enhance visitor experience while maintaining ecological sensitivity.

## Overview

The Pape Bird Observation Tower is situated in Pape Nature Park, an ecological zone characterized by wetlands. The design aims to create an immersive experience for visitors while prioritizing the conservation of local biodiversity. This overview examines the project’s conceptual framework, materiality, and the ways it integrates with the surrounding landscape.

## Spatial Interaction

The tower's design emphasizes interaction with the natural environment through the use of two primary screens that guide visitors' experiences. These screens serve as visual and functional thresholds, fostering a sense of curiosity about the ecological landscape. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces leads visitors through a narrative experience, encouraging engagement with the surrounding habitat. Key features include a 360-degree panoramic observation platform and sculptural staircases that facilitate circulation and accessibility while enhancing the relationship between structure and landscape.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The architectural framework relies on a combination of materials to achieve structural integrity and environmental harmony. Stainless steel provides durability, while concrete forms a stable foundation. Lightweight wood and prefabricated wooden planks not only add warmth and scale to the design but also reflect sustainable building practices, minimizing waste during construction. The tower incorporates habitats for local bird species within its structural elements, supporting biodiversity and creating a direct link between human activity and the wildlife of the wetlands. This biophilic approach ensures that the structure enhances both visitor experience and ecological function.

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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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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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