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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Stealthy Observation Spaces in Natural Settings

Author:
Christian Ruiz abello
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Stealthy Observation Spaces in Natural Settings

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design seamlessly integrates with the landscape to offer visitors immersive observation spaces that encourage a deeper connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles through the Shou Sugi Ban technique for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that promote sustainable building practices and structural efficiency.
03
Incorporates an innovative bent A-frame design, optimizing views while minimizing visual impact on the landscape.
04
Integrates expanded metal mesh flooring to allow light and air circulation, enhancing the sensory experience.
05
Prioritizes environmental sensitivity by elevating pathways to preserve natural habitats beneath the structure.
The project, designed for a notable location, represents a thoughtful approach to architecture that integrates seamlessly into its natural surroundings. Rather than adhering to the traditional form of the observation tower, this design offers a horizontal expansion that invites visitors to engage with the landscape in a more immersive and accessible manner. The essence of the project lies in its ability to challenge conventional notions of towers while enhancing the visitor experience through thoughtful spatial organization and interaction with the environment.

Functionally, this architectural design serves as an observation space that encourages exploration and contemplation of the surrounding ecosystem. It consists of interconnected platforms and pathways that guide users through the landscape, allowing for varying degrees of elevation and perspective. The structure is designed to accommodate a diverse range of visitors, including those with mobility challenges, ensuring that accessibility is a top priority. By inviting individuals to traverse the pathways and observe the natural environment, the project fosters a deeper connection between humanity and nature, highlighting the importance of ecological awareness.

Key components of the project include the carefully organized boardwalks that facilitate movement through the park. The design features a short boardwalk for quick access to scenic viewpoints and a longer pathway that allows for extended exploration. At the heart of the project lies an inflection point—a gathering area that connects these pathways and provides visitors with a place to pause and engage with the surroundings. This design element reflects a commitment to creating spaces that encourage social interaction and environmental appreciation.

The unique approach to the architecture is evident in the choice of materials and construction methods. The design employs wood treated using the Shou Sugi Ban technique, a traditional Japanese process that enhances the wood's durability and aesthetic appeal through charring. This method preserves the natural qualities of the material while providing a unique texture and appearance that resonates with the park's character. Steel components are also integrated into the structure, ensuring stability without overwhelming the lightweight aesthetic of the design.

Another notable feature of the project is the use of expanded metal mesh for flooring, which promotes visibility and air circulation while allowing the natural light to filter through the structure. This incorporation of transparency enhances the sensory experience of the visitors, enabling them to engage with their surroundings more deeply. The structure's elevated design preserves the natural habitats underneath, allowing wildlife to move freely and minimizing the ecological impact of human activity.

This project represents an evolution in architectural thinking, prioritizing ecological sensitivity, accessibility, and user experience. By breaking away from the vertical dominance typically associated with observation towers, the design invites careful reflection on the relationship between built environments and the natural world. The focus on horizontal space and fluid movement through the park embodies a modern architectural philosophy that respects and embraces its context.

As you explore this project further, take the time to review the architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate these innovative ideas. Each detail offers insight into the thoughtful conception that makes this design a noteworthy intervention in the landscape. Engaging with these components will deepen your understanding of this architectural project and inspire further reflection on how spaces can harmonize with their environments.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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