Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Ecological Buffer Zones and Elevated Piers Over Water

Authors:
Agata Miszewicz, Katarzyna konstancja Jeziorkowska, Patryk Konieczny
Ecological Buffer Zones and Elevated Piers Over Water

Project in-detail

Incorporating dedicated buffer zones for avian habitats alongside accessible elevated piers, the design enhances user interaction with the water reservoir while prioritizing ecological considerations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dedicated buffer zones for local bird habitats are integrated into the design.
02
Elevated piers provide unique observation opportunities above the water.
03
The layout employs orthogonal and diagonal grids for spatial organization.
04
Access zones are purposefully separated for visitors and wildlife.
05
The design promotes direct engagement with the surrounding natural environment.

The design features a pier and an observation tower located above a water reservoir. This concept highlights the importance of integrating built structures with the natural environment. It invites visitors to actively engage with their surroundings. Different pathways allow easy exploration of the area, enhancing the experience of being near water.

Pier Design and Functionality

The pier is the main focus of the design, built for walking and observation. Its cross-section shows careful consideration of how people will use the space. Visitors can walk down towards the water and along the pier’s length, promoting an experience that connects them with the natural landscape. The design uses various grid patterns, including orthogonal and diagonal layouts, to create a flow that is both organized and visually pleasing.

Observation Tower Characteristics

The observation tower consists of two distinct zones that serve different functions. The upper level has a 191 square meter access area for visitors, along with a 300 square meter buffer zone for birds. This thoughtful separation allows easy access for people while providing a safe space for wildlife. On the lower level, there is another access zone for visitors measuring 200 square meters, accompanied by an additional 300 square meters for birds. This balancing act promotes both human enjoyment and ecological preservation.

Site Plan and Spatial Relationships

The site plan clearly shows how the tower and piers interact with the landscape. Their arrangement enhances the natural beauty of the reservoir while fulfilling their intended purposes. The relationship between the elements is carefully designed to ensure a harmonious coexistence. Detailed plans and sections, such as the ground floor plan and longitudinal section, further clarify how the design interacts with the site’s contours.

Technical Details and Design Outcomes

The project's technical aspects showcase a focus on accessibility and environmental sensitivity. Although specific materials are not mentioned, the design reflects a strong connection to the natural context. The structures aim to create meaningful experiences for visitors while also considering the needs of local wildlife. Notably, the top level of the observation tower offers wide views, encouraging visitors to appreciate the surrounding landscape and connecting them with nature in a direct and engaging way.

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

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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