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Circular Structure Built with Sustainable Wood Decking Overlooking Local Wetlands

Authors:
Fanbo Zeng, Xi Chen, Nan Jiang, Jianmin Meng
Circular Structure Built with Sustainable Wood Decking Overlooking Local Wetlands

Project in-detail

A circular observation tower constructed with sustainable wood decking offers elevated views of local wetlands, creating an engaging environment for birdwatching and ecological education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a circular design that mimics avian flight paths, enhancing user experience.
02
Incorporates sustainably sourced cross-laminated timber for structural and aesthetic benefits.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for durability and visual appeal, promoting weather resistance.
04
Provides multiple viewing platforms at varying heights for diverse wildlife observation.
05
Designed to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding wetlands, encouraging ecological appreciation.

## Overview

The Pape Bird Observation Tower is situated within Pape Nature Park and aims to enhance the birdwatching experience while fostering a connection between visitors and their natural surroundings. Well-positioned to provide unobstructed views of migratory birds, the structure serves as both an observation point and a site for reflection on biodiversity and ecological conservation.

### Spatial Strategy and User Interaction

The design employs a circular pathway that mimics the flight patterns of birds, allowing visitors to traverse the space while experiencing various perspectives of the landscape. This layout promotes a continuous flow of movement, reducing congestion and enabling interaction among visitors. The tower features multiple viewing platforms at varying heights, each equipped with seating to encourage extended observation of the surrounding wetlands and wildlife. Gradually ascending pathways make the structure accessible to individuals of all ages and abilities.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration

Materials used in the construction reflect a commitment to sustainability and environmental harmony. The primary components include sustainably sourced wood for decking, which provides warmth and comfort, and steel trusses that offer structural support while maintaining a modern aesthetic. Metal railings ensure safety without compromising views, and concrete footings anchor the tower securely within the landscape. Local materials and colors are incorporated to blend the structure with its environment, thereby reinforcing a sense of coexistence with nature.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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