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Charred Wooden Shingles Define an Elevated Viewing Experience in a Nature-Focused Environment

Author:
Eduardo Vega Arevalo
Charred Wooden Shingles Define an Elevated Viewing Experience in a Nature-Focused Environment
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Crafted from charred wooden shingles and designed with elevated balconies, the structure enhances birdwatching experiences while seamlessly integrating into its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural strength and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design maximizing aesthetic integration with the landscape.
04
Includes strategically placed balconies for optimal birdwatching and interaction with nature.
05
Integrates rainwater collection systems for improved environmental sustainability.

### Project Overview
The Pape Bird Observation Tower is located within the Pape Nature Park in southwestern Latvia, designed to enhance community engagement and wildlife observation. Its architecture is thoughtfully integrated into a significant bird migration route, reflecting the ecological attributes of the surrounding environment.

### Spatial Strategy
The tower is organized into three distinct levels, each designed to facilitate different interactions with nature. The first level serves as an access point with recreational areas and introductory observation spaces that cater to families and casual visitors. The second level offers a more intimate experience for birdwatchers, featuring amenities such as binocular racks and informational displays. The third level provides expansive views of the landscape, optimized for serious birdwatching and photography, with additional landscaping intended to attract local fauna. The thoughtful arrangement of exposed balconies allows for unobstructed viewing angles and encourages visitors to engage more deeply with their surroundings.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Constructed primarily of wood, the tower reflects local building traditions while harmonizing with the natural landscape. Glass elements are incorporated in railings and select façades to provide clear sightlines for birdwatching while maximizing natural light. Steel supports structural integrity across the varying levels. Sustainability is a critical component of the design, featuring green roofs and a potential solar panel system to improve energy efficiency. Water collection systems are integrated into the design, promoting self-sufficiency and aligning with local hydrological cycles. The foundation, supported by eight wooden columns, was tailored based on soil testing to ensure stability and longevity, while the design also prioritizes accessibility for all visitors through the inclusion of stairs and optional elevators.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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