Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Charred Wooden Shingles Elevate a Timber Structure for Birdwatching and Ecological Engagement

Authors:
Robin Nong, Meng Ye, Johnathan Chan
Charred Wooden Shingles Elevate a Timber Structure for Birdwatching and Ecological Engagement

Project in-detail

Featuring charred wooden shingles and a spiral staircase, the structure enhances birdwatching experiences while promoting ecological education within the diverse habitat of Lake Pape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide increased durability and low maintenance.
02
The design includes a spiral staircase to connect two distinct observation platforms.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural stability and sustainability.
04
A bent A-frame design optimizes wind deflection and natural light entry.
05
The pavilion integrates into the wetland ecosystem with minimal land disturbance.

The birdwatching pavilion located at Lake Pape in Latvia serves as a dedicated space for both avian observation and ecological education. Designed to blend seamlessly into its natural surroundings, the project emphasizes user experience while prioritizing environmental conservation. The pavilion is strategically placed to offer optimal vantage points for birdwatching while minimizing its impact on the surrounding ecosystem.

One of the notable aspects of this project is its emphasis on sensory engagement. Visitors can interact with the habitat at two distinct levels: an elevated platform for panoramic views and a lower level that brings them closer to the natural elements. This dual approach enhances the experience of birdwatching, allowing for a profound connection with the local wildlife.

Materials selected for this project underscore its commitment to sustainability and durability. The primary use of wood reflects not only the aesthetic appeal but also establishes a tactile relationship with the users. Glass elements provide unobstructed views and ample natural light, while concrete underpins the structure, offering stability above the wetland.

Design features include a spiral staircase connecting both platforms, promoting fluid movement within the pavilion and encouraging exploration. The carefully designed apertures serve to frame views of the surrounding landscape and allow natural soundscapes to permeate the interior spaces, enhancing the auditory experience of users.

Innovative design approaches set this project apart from others in the field. The architecture responds adeptly to the local environment, using minimal land alteration techniques while ensuring minimal disruption to the wildlife. This context-sensitive design ensures that the pavilion not only functions as an observation point but also becomes a tool for education about local conservation efforts.

The integrated approach to architectural design evident in this pavilion highlights the balance between user experience and environmental responsibility. The architectural design of the pavilion invites users to learn and engage with nature without compromising the ecological integrity of the site. To gain deeper insights into this project, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of the birdwatching pavilion at Lake Pape.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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.

`

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

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
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 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 17,725 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