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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

Project in-detail

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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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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