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Elevated Observation Structure With Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Integration for Habitat Preservation

Authors:
Pedro Serrano, Brad Ingram
Elevated Observation Structure With Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Integration for Habitat Preservation

Project in-detail

Elevated platforms constructed from charred wooden shingles and timber create a sustainable observation tower that integrates seamlessly into the Pape Nature Park, enhancing birdwatching experiences while minimizing environmental impact.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design minimizes ground contact for ecological preservation.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and natural integration.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural efficiency and aesthetic warmth.
04
Multiple viewing platforms afford 360-degree views of the wetland.
05
Amphitheater facilitates community engagement and educational programs.

### Project Overview

Located within Pape Nature Park in Latvia, the observation platform is designed to facilitate birdwatching while fostering ecological awareness and community engagement. The structure draws inspiration from natural forms, specifically bird nests, aiming to create a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the surrounding ecosystem. The project prioritizes sustainable practices, promoting both human observation and avian habitation.

### Spatial Configuration and User Interaction

The design features multiple elevated viewing platforms that minimize ground contact, thereby reducing disruption to the wetland's ecosystem. The primary structure, an observation tower supported by slender timber pillars, allows for expansive 360-degree views of the landscape. The layout includes two primary viewing areas that invite visitors to engage with the environment, creating opportunities for extended observation and deeper connection to nature. Winding pathways lead to the tower, designed to reflect organic forms, enhancing the overall visitor experience while guiding exploration.

### Material Selection and Environmental Impact

Material choices reflect a commitment to sustainability, with timber serving as the primary construction element. This renewable resource not only integrates the structure with its surroundings but also enhances its aesthetic appeal. If utilized, glass elements are strategically positioned to offer unobstructed views while maintaining a minimal visual footprint. Additionally, a low-impact foundation system ensures the preservation of the wetland's ecological integrity, exemplifying the project's dedication to ecological sensitivity. The incorporation of an amphitheater further promotes community engagement by facilitating educational programs and events focused on local wildlife.

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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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