Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles Ascending Through Louvered Platforms for Natural Observation

Authors:
Jean-Baptiste Petit, Jordi Rosas
Charred Wooden Shingles Ascending Through Louvered Platforms for Natural Observation

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and slatted platforms, the tower elevates visitors into the treetops, allowing for unobstructed views of surrounding wildlife while promoting an immersive bird watching experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates slatted platforms that provide panoramic views while maintaining visual connection to the environment.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for efficient material use and structural integrity.
04
Features a bent A-frame design that supports natural light penetration and airflow.
05
Strategically positioned for optimal bird-watching opportunities in a biodiverse habitat.
The Pape Bird Observation Tower is an architectural project designed to enhance the experience of bird watching within a thoughtfully curated natural environment. This tower serves as a platform for visitors to observe birds in their habitat, while also promoting engagement with the surrounding ecosystem. Located in a region characterized by rich biodiversity, the tower's design facilitates the interaction between humans and nature, positioning itself as a significant addition to the landscape.

The primary function of the Pape Bird Observation Tower is to provide an elevated vantage point for bird watching and nature observation. The structure rises vertically, enabling visitors to view the flora and fauna from various heights and perspectives. This vertical orientation not only allows for unobstructed views of the landscape but also emphasizes the connection between the architecture and its environment.

The design of the observation tower incorporates several key architectural elements. The structure consists of multiple levels, connected by a well-integrated staircase. The use of wood is predominant, which aligns with sustainable building practices while creating a visually appealing aspect to the architecture. Metal components are used to ensure structural integrity, while concrete provides a reliable foundation for the tower.

A significant aspect of the design is the strategic arrangement of slatted wooden cladding, which offers transparency and light penetration within the space. This feature allows visitors to engage with nature directly while providing framed views of the landscape, enhancing the overall experience. The design also dedicates specific platforms for bird watching, which encourages visitors to immerse themselves in the activity.

The tower's accessibility is considered through its design, with wide staircases and open viewing platforms, ensuring that a wide audience can enjoy the facility. Each level of the tower is specifically designed to accommodate viewers of different heights and preferences, further enhancing user experience.

The Pape Bird Observation Tower distinguishes itself from typical observation structures by incorporating unique design features. The thoughtful consideration of its ecological context informs its placement and visibility, allowing the tower to blend into the surroundings rather than dominate it. The use of local materials ensures that the construction resonates with the regional character, presenting an architectural identity that complements the natural landscape.

Moreover, the structure effectively promotes sustainability through its material choices and design principles, which prioritize minimal environmental impact. By focusing on renewable resources and energy-efficient use, the tower reflects modern architectural standards that respond to ecological challenges.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural intent and details, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. By reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs, one can gain deeper insights into the thoughtful ideas underpinning this observation tower, as well as its functionality and unique features. Through the exploration of this project, a clearer picture of the relationship between architecture and nature will unfold, revealing the significance of the Pape Bird Observation Tower within its environment.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy