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Cross-Stitched Timber Panels Elevate Birdwatching Experience in Coastal Reserve

Authors:
Carmen Johnson, Anshul Brat, Niloufar Alenjery, Cory Cwiak
Cross-Stitched Timber Panels Elevate Birdwatching Experience in Coastal Reserve

Project in-detail

Crafted with cross-stitched timber panels and integrated into the coastal landscape, the observation tower provides a unique vantage point for birdwatching while enhancing local ecological awareness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from locally sourced cross-stitched timber panels that echo traditional Latvian craftsmanship.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and integrate with the natural landscape.
03
Features a bent A-frame design which allows for increased structural efficiency and unique aesthetic appeal.
04
Tiered observation platforms offer varied sightlines for an immersive birdwatching experience.
05
Engages local artisans in construction, fostering community connection and preserving traditional techniques.

# Analytical Report: KOKLE Observation Tower in Pape Nature Park, Latvia

## Overview
The KOKLE observation tower is situated in Pape Nature Park, Latvia, and serves as a bird observation point that emphasizes local craftsmanship alongside modern architectural practices. The design reflects Latvian cultural heritage through its distinct material usage and construction techniques, aimed at enhancing local identity while encouraging interaction with the natural environment.

## Spatial Strategy
The observation tower is inspired by the traditional kokle, a Latvian musical instrument, embodying themes of connectivity to land and heritage. The architectural configuration integrates elevated pathways and viewing platforms that provide panoramic vistas while maintaining minimal disturbance to the surrounding ecosystem. This layout promotes a dual function of offering secure birdwatching opportunities while serving as a protective habitat for avian species.

## Materiality and Construction
The structure incorporates locally sourced timber for its framework, evoking warmth and a direct relationship with the landscape. Glass panels are utilized in the façade to afford unobstructed views, ensuring a physical connection between observers and wildlife. Lightweight steel frames enhance structural integrity without compromising the design's overall lightness. Additionally, a fabric mesh serves as a visual and light filter that allows for discreet wildlife observation.

Artisan-crafted panels featuring a cross-stitch pattern echo traditional Latvian needlework, contributing to both the tower's aesthetic and its functional attributes. This thoughtful selection of materials showcases local craftsmanship while reinforcing the narrative of cultural significance.

## Environmental Integration
The tower's design is harmonized with its natural setting, allowing for minimal disruption to underground flora and fauna. Elevated structures preserve the existing ground cover, facilitating birdwatching while also providing a habitat through its intricate façade. The design promotes an immersive observational experience, consisting of layered platforms that enhance engagement with the landscape, featuring fragmented views and comprehensive 360-degree perspectives. Sheltered areas equipped with seating further invite visitors to pause and connect with nature, enriching the overall user experience.

In addition to its structural and environmental considerations, the project fosters community engagement by involving local artisans in its construction, thereby creating jobs and supporting traditional craftsmanship techniques, which contribute to a shared identity among visitors and the surrounding community.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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