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Elevated Observation Decks Crafted from Heavy Timber and Designed for Ecological Engagement

Author:
Landon Stephens Brown
Elevated Observation Decks Crafted from Heavy Timber and Designed for Ecological Engagement

Project in-detail

Crafted with heavy timber and designed with elevated observation decks, the structure facilitates engagement with the surrounding wetlands while serving as a visitor center that celebrates local ecology and culture.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced heavy timber for structural integrity.
02
Features elevated observation decks to enhance views of surrounding wetlands.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance.
04
Designed with terraced pathways promoting accessibility and engagement.
05
Dedicated spaces for literary activities connect visitors with local culture.

### Project Overview

Sitelines is an architectural initiative located in De Smet, South Dakota, along the historic Highway 14. This site is notable for its cultural heritage related to Laura Ingalls Wilder and its natural beauty, including prairies, wetlands, and waterways such as Silver Lake and Big Slough. The intent of the project is to create an immersive environment that fosters connections between visitors and the landscape while enhancing local cultural narratives.

### Architectural Form and Material Utilization

The design features a modern aesthetic characterized by clean lines and elevated platforms that facilitate interaction with the outdoor environment. Heavy timber serves as a primary material, reinforcing local sourcing while emphasizing sustainability. Additional materials include vertical slats to provide privacy and transparency, large glass panels to frame panoramic views, and weather-resistant finishes to ensure long-term durability. The architectural composition is strategically oriented to optimize site lines and enhance user experiences throughout varying contexts and seasons.

### Landscape Connectivity and Cultural Engagement

Pathways and observation decks are integrated into the surrounding landscape, designed to follow the natural contours and encourage exploration of the local ecology. This design approach cultivates opportunities for activities such as birdwatching and ecological study. Furthermore, the spaces within Sitelines are intentionally crafted to reflect the literary contributions of Laura Ingalls Wilder, creating areas dedicated to her work that enhance the cultural experience for visitors. The project aims to serve as both an educational resource and a community gathering space, promoting environmental appreciation and cultural dialogue.

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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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