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Charred Timber Tower Embracing Nature Through Transparent Observation

Author:
Edita Bruzikaite
Charred Timber Tower Embracing Nature Through Transparent Observation

Project in-detail

The use of charred timber in a triangular form creates a visually striking observation tower that enhances the experience of bird watching while seamlessly integrating with the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Observation platforms offer varying heights for enhanced bird watching.
02
Design incorporates charred timber cladding for durability and aesthetic integration.
03
Triangular form allows for dynamic views from different perspectives.
04
Located in Pape, the tower reflects the area's rural architectural style.
05
Structure aims to foster stronger connections between visitors and nature.

Lake Phoenix is located in Pape and is designed as a bird observation tower. It stands as a response to an earlier tower that was destroyed by fire. The concept revolves around themes of resilience and renewal. The design invites visitors to connect with nature by encouraging bird watching and exploring the surrounding environment.

Architectural Concept

The focus of the design is observation. The tower aims to provide a space where visitors can engage with wildlife. It promotes awareness of local bird species, allowing people to listen to their calls and witness various interactions in nature. The intention is to create an experience that deepens the understanding of the ecosystem.



Design Features

The structure has a triangular form. This shape offers a distinctive appearance that changes depending on the angle from which it is viewed. The transparency of the design enhances engagement, ensuring that the surroundings remain visible. This allows visitors to feel a part of the natural setting while they explore the observation areas.



Contextual Integration

The design takes inspiration from its surroundings, including the open meadows and traditional wooden houses nearby. It reflects a monochromatic style that blends well with the landscape. The choice to keep the design simple enables the tower to fit nicely into its environment, creating a connection between contemporary form and the natural world.



Material Selection

Charred timber cladding is used for the exterior, which signifies the imagery of feathers associated with the mythical phoenix. The material choice ensures durability and protection against the elements while harmonizing with the colors of the landscape. This thoughtful selection contributes to both the form and function of the tower.



The observation tower includes multiple viewing platforms that optimize the experiences available to visitors. Each level provides distinct perspectives of the vibrant surrounding environment, enhancing the opportunity for engagement with the local wildlife and promoting a sense of tranquility within nature.

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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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