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Elevated Observation Tower Crafted From Laminated Timber and Steel Integrating Wetland Habitat

Author:
Daniel Meza Yescas
Elevated Observation Tower Crafted From Laminated Timber and Steel Integrating Wetland Habitat

Project in-detail

Constructed with laminated timber and steel, the observation tower elevates visitors above the wetland ecosystem, providing unobstructed views while integrating sustainable design principles to enhance wildlife interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a bent A-frame design to enhance structural stability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for strength and sustainability in construction.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles, providing weather resistance while blending with the natural landscape.
04
Features two distinct observation platforms for diverse viewing experiences of the wetland ecosystem.
05
Accessed via a 50-meter footbridge, promoting inclusivity for pedestrians and cyclists.

### Overview
Located in Pape, the bird observation tower integrates with the region's natural landscape while serving as an ecological observatory. The intent of the structure is to enhance visitor engagement with nature, providing both functional utility and a sense of place within the surrounding environment.

### Spatial Strategy
The design emphasizes continuity and permeability, characterized by a fluid, organic form that enhances the viewing experience. The tower features a gracefully sweeping silhouette reminiscent of bird wings, which ascends approximately 14.5 meters, creating elevated viewpoints for panoramic views of the wetland ecosystems. Two main observation platforms are integrated into the structure: the larger platform spans 12.5 square meters, facilitating extensive interaction with the scenery, while a smaller, 5.5 square meter platform offers a more intimate setting for birdwatching. The structured height and varying platform designs ensure both accessibility and safety for all users.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The construction primarily utilizes wood for its structural framework, leveraging its renewability and natural insulation properties. Steel is incorporated at the joints to reinforce structural integrity, while optional organic materials may be utilized for insulation and aesthetic enhancement. This selection not only supports ecological sustainability objectives but also integrates the tower with its natural surroundings. The tower is designed to minimize its ecological footprint, employing recyclable materials and promoting environmental awareness among visitors. A 50-meter-long footbridge enhances connectivity, facilitating access for both cyclists and pedestrians and encouraging interaction with the local ecosystem.

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

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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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