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Charred Wooden Shingles and Colored Strips Defining a Contemporary Bird Observation Structure

Authors:
Román jesús Cordero tovar, Izbeth katia Mendoza fragoso
Charred Wooden Shingles and Colored Strips Defining a Contemporary Bird Observation Structure

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and colored strips, the design captures the essence of local heritage while offering a functional observation tower for birdwatching.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates colored wooden strips in the handrail, reflecting local textile patterns.
03
Designed with interlaced staircases for varied viewing angles of the landscape.
04
Features a dedicated observation terrace for extended wildlife observation.
05
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.

### Project Overview

The Pape Bird Observation Tower, named "Centrifugal Monitor," is strategically situated in a landscape that reflects the local Latvian heritage. Its design purposefully merges experiences of nature and cultural memory, drawing inspiration from the region's historical lighthouses. The tower serves as a contemporary facility for birdwatching and observation, aimed at fostering a connection between visitors and the surrounding environment.

### Design Concept and Spatial Strategy

The design concept is influenced by traditional lighthouse structures and the cultural patterns of Latvia. The vertical composition embodies both a literal and metaphorical ascent toward greater awareness of the natural world. Key elements include a contact platform that invites user interaction with the landscape, and dual interlaced staircases that facilitate exploration and engagement with changing perspectives as visitors ascend. At the pinnacle, the observation terrace provides panoramic views and rest areas, encouraging contemplation of the scenery.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The architectural integrity is enhanced through a careful selection of materials. Predominantly constructed with wood, the design reflects the natural surroundings while infusing cultural significance through colorful wooden strips in the handrails, reminiscent of traditional Latvian textiles. The foundation is likely reinforced concrete, ensuring stability amidst the tower’s height. The use of local materials aligns with sustainable design principles, promoting an environmentally responsive approach to construction and reinforcing the structure’s connection to its setting.

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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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