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Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Framework Forming a Tiered Observation Structure in a Natural Landscape

Authors:
Antal KHRIPKO, ELENA PUPYSHEVA, GENNADY BAKUNIN
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Framework Forming a Tiered Observation Structure in a Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and a layered timber framework, the design creates an elevated observation platform that seamlessly integrates with the ecological landscape, enhancing the birdwatching experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize views and minimize visual impact on the landscape.
04
Includes multiple observation levels to cater to diverse visitor experiences and accessibility.
05
Integrates with the natural environment to promote ecological awareness and birdwatching.

The Bird's Tower project, located in The Pape Nature Park in Latvia, is an architectural design focused on enhancing birdwatching experiences while promoting ecological connection. This structure replaces a previous observation tower lost to fire, integrating seamlessly with the natural landscape. The design aims to accommodate visitors through a thoughtful arrangement of observation platforms and walking paths, enabling intimate interaction with both flora and fauna.

Unique Structural Design

Unlike conventional observatories, Bird's Tower features an axially symmetric form with four distinct levels providing optimal vantage points for bird observation. The round plan of the tower allows for varied perspectives, ensuring visitors can engage with their surroundings from multiple viewpoints. The design emphasizes openness, utilizing a combination of wooden elements and steel reinforcements, offering strength while maintaining a lightweight aesthetic.

The tiered structure promotes accessibility, with well-designed pathways leading to observation decks. Each level offers a unique experience—ranging from quiet contemplation to social interaction—thereby catering to the diverse needs of users. This careful consideration of visitor experience sets Bird's Tower apart from standard birdwatching facilities.

Sustainable Material Selection

Material choices reflect a commitment to sustainability, with wood serving as the primary component for its natural aesthetics and compatibility with the environment. The wooden elements are treated to withstand the elements, ensuring longevity with minimal maintenance. Steel reinforcements provide necessary structural integrity without detracting from the design's natural appearance.

The use of these materials, paired with the tower’s organic form, enhances its integration within the park, allowing it to blend into the landscape while functioning effectively. The project serves as educational infrastructure by fostering awareness about the local avian ecosystem through immersive user experiences.

For those interested in further exploring the design principles and functional aspects of Bird's Tower, refer to the architectural plans and sections that detail the project's execution. By examining these materials, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas that inform this unique bird observation facility.

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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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