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Cylindrical Observation Platform Crafted from Treated Timber and Integrated Natural Barriers

Authors:
Zuzanna Banaś, Magdalena Budyta, Katarzyna Gębalska, Aleksandra Konstanciak
Cylindrical Observation Platform Crafted from Treated Timber and Integrated Natural Barriers
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Constructed with treated timber and designed as a cylindrical observation platform, the structure offers an unobtrusive vantage point for birdwatching while integrating natural barriers to minimize disturbance to local wildlife.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with treated timber, the project minimizes ecological impact while enhancing durability.
02
The design incorporates natural barriers that allow for unobstructed wildlife observation.
03
A circular pathway layout promotes accessibility for visitors of all abilities.
04
Informational boards provide educational content about local bird species and habitat.
05
Rotatable binoculars are strategically installed to enhance the birdwatching experience.

### Project Overview
The Pape Bird Observation Tower, named "The Nest," is situated within a delicate ecological setting, designed to enhance birdwatching while promoting a meaningful connection between individuals and their natural surroundings. Inspired by the structure of a bird's nest, the design reflects themes of observation, leisure, and education.

### Spatial Strategy and User Accessibility
The tower features two circular pathways at distinct elevations—one at water level and another elevated to 6.5 meters. This configuration promotes universal accessibility, accommodating diverse user groups, including families and individuals with mobility challenges. The integration of gentle ramps connecting the two levels facilitates easy navigation, while strategically placed wooden benches encourage visitors to engage with the environment. The layout and design prioritize minimal disruption to local wildlife, ensuring that visitor experiences are both immersive and ecologically considerate.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration
Construction materials were chosen for their natural aesthetic and compatibility with the surroundings. Treated wood serves as the primary structural material, while metal strings act as unobtrusive barriers to enhance visibility for birdwatchers. Driven piles provide structural stability in the marshy terrain, and wooden cylindrical panels, varying in diameter, obscure human presence, thereby reducing disturbances to birdlife. This careful selection of materials underscores a commitment to ecological integrity, reinforcing the tower's role as both a viewing platform and a space for preservation and education.

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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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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
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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