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Cylindrical Reclaimed Wood Structure Enhancing Wetland Habitats for Visitor Engagement

Authors:
Tiago Cabral, Henrique Pimentel, Sara Pimentel
Cylindrical Reclaimed Wood Structure Enhancing Wetland Habitats for Visitor Engagement
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Celebrating wetland biodiversity, the cylindrical structure of reclaimed wood incorporates wildlife-friendly features while offering visitors a unique vantage point for nature observation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cylindrical form enhances natural views while reducing visual impact on the landscape.
02
Wildlife nesting spots integrated within the facade promote biodiversity conservation.
03
Spiral staircase design encourages visitors to engage with their surroundings at multiple viewpoints.
04
Transparent glass elements increase daylight penetration and connection to the natural environment.
05
Minimal foundation footprint ensures the preservation of existing flora and fauna.

### Overview

The Natural Observation Tower is located in Pape Natural Park, designed to serve both human visitors and local wildlife within a wetland context. The cylindrical structure emphasizes ecological coexistence, positioning itself as both an observation point and a habitat for various species. This design integrates aesthetic considerations with functionality, employing a form that resonates with natural plant structures while promoting the twin goals of environmental stewardship and user engagement.

### Spatial and Structural Strategy

Central to the design is a spiral pathway that connects three observation levels, encouraging wildlife viewership while providing panoramic sightlines of the surrounding landscape. Each floor features partial openings, allowing for natural ventilation and light penetration while facilitating navigation for both people and animals. The cylindrical form minimizes ecological disruption, as the foundation is designed with a minimal footprint to preserve existing flora and fauna. Strategic placement reinforces harmony with the wetland ecosystem, ensuring the structure's longevity and viability in terms of environmental impact.

### Material and Environmental Considerations

A carefully selected palette of materials underpins the project’s sustainability ethos. Reclaimed wood forms the primary structural components, contributing to durability and reducing the demand for new resources. Metal elements provide structural support while maintaining aesthetic coherence, and glass facades enhance transparency, facilitating interaction with the natural environment. Additionally, features such as integrated faux bird nests promote wildlife habitation and education. The overall material strategy emphasizes a design that can withstand local climatic conditions while minimizing the environmental footprint, reflecting a commitment to responsible architectural practices.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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