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Charred Wood and Corten Steel Structure Providing Elevated Bird Observation Experience

Authors:
Moro Daniele, Ruggero Biondo, Alessandro Lorefice, Linda Grifoni
Charred Wood and Corten Steel Structure Providing Elevated Bird Observation Experience

Project in-detail

Constructed from charred wood and weathered Corten steel, the observation tower elevates visitor experiences within Pape Nature Park by providing multiple vantage points for bird watching in a sustainable and accessible environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wood for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features Corten steel that naturally weathers to blend with the environment.
03
Incorporates accessible pathways ensuring ease of movement for all visitors.
04
Designed with multiple observation platforms at varying heights for diverse vantage points.
05
Utilizes photovoltaic panels to support energy needs sustainably.

### Overview
The Pape Bird Observation Tower is situated within the Pape Nature Park in Latvia and functions as a dedicated point for bird observation. The design intent is to engage visitors with the surrounding natural landscape while facilitating a comprehensive viewing experience of the region's avian life. The structure reflects a combination of contemporary architectural strategies and ecological sensitivity, creating a space that fosters appreciation for the environment.

### Spatial Strategy and Accessibility
The architectural design features a multi-level structure that optimizes visibility for bird watching, with varying platform heights tailored to the site's topography. Distinct observation points enhance the experience by providing diverse vantage options. Accessibility is a key consideration, with footbridges and landfalls ensuring safe transitions between ground level and elevated observation spaces. The inclusion of communal gathering areas promotes interaction among visitors while encouraging a connection to nature.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Material selection is pivotal to the tower’s functionality and aesthetic integration with its surroundings. Corten steel is employed for its durability and ability to weather gracefully over time, while charred wood (Shou Sugi Ban) adds a unique texture and heightened fire resistance. Heat-treated and oiled wood supports flooring and interior finishes, reinforcing a natural ambiance. The design includes steel tubular frames for structural integrity, complemented by screw foundations that minimize site disturbance during installation.

Incorporation of photovoltaic panels enhances the sustainability profile by supplying renewable energy for lighting and safety systems. Additionally, educational panels provide visitors with insights into local ecosystems, enriching their understanding and appreciation of Pape Nature Park’s biodiversity.

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

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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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