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Charred Timber Cladding and Thatched Roof Merge with Marshland for Enhanced Birdwatching Experience

Authors:
Maija Viksne, David Ziegler
Charred Timber Cladding and Thatched Roof Merge with Marshland for Enhanced Birdwatching Experience

Project in-detail

Charred timber cladding and a thatched roof seamlessly integrate with the marshland, creating a purpose-built observation tower that enhances birdwatching opportunities while respecting the natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while reducing maintenance requirements.
02
The design incorporates biophilic elements, encouraging a visual connection with the surrounding environment.
03
A wooden walkway minimizes ecological disruption, enhancing visitor access to the observation tower.
04
The bent A-frame structure provides optimal sightlines for birdwatching without obstructing views.
05
Sustainable materials were sourced locally, reinforcing environmental stewardship in construction.

The Pape Bird Observation Tower is an architectural project designed to enhance the birdwatching experience at Pape Lake. This structure harmonizes with its natural surroundings while serving a distinct function as an observation platform. The project combines elements of local architectural tradition with modern design techniques, creating a facility that supports ecological awareness and education.

The tower accommodates various visitor activities, offering multiple levels for observing wildlife without disrupting natural habitats. Its construction emphasizes sustainability, utilizing locally sourced materials and traditional methods to reflect a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Integration of Nature and Structure

One of the defining features of the Pape Bird Observation Tower is its use of charred timber cladding, which enhances the building's longevity and aesthetic appeal. This environmentally conscious material choice is complemented by a thatched roof, common in local architecture, providing insulation while seamlessly blending the structure into its natural environment. The wooden frame construction allows for an open design that fosters a connection between occupants and the surrounding landscape.

The observation platforms are strategically designed to accommodate different viewing experiences. Enclosed spaces offer shelter while maintaining sightlines to the lake, whereas open spaces facilitate direct engagement with the natural world. The architectural form is reminiscent of bird wings, symbolizing both protection and the purpose of the tower as a tool for observation.

Functional Design for Visitor Engagement

Access to the Pape Bird Observation Tower is designed to be user-friendly, featuring a wooden walkway that minimizes ecological impact and encourages exploration. This thoughtful circulation design enhances accessibility for all visitors while ensuring conservation of the surrounding marsh habitat.

The overall design stands out in its combination of form, function, and ecological harmony, distancing itself from typical observation structures that may prioritize aesthetics over integrative design. By embracing local context and environmental sustainability, the Pape Bird Observation Tower exemplifies how architecture can serve practical functions while positively contributing to ecological education.

For a deeper understanding of the Pape Bird Observation Tower, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further to grasp its innovative contributions to architectural ideas in ecological settings.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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