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Elevated Observation Tower Crafted with Prefabricated Steel Fins and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in a Wetland Ecosystem

Authors:
Chang yuan max Hsu, Hadeel ayed Mohammad
Elevated Observation Tower Crafted with Prefabricated Steel Fins and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in a Wetland Ecosystem

Project in-detail

Constructed with prefabricated steel fins and cross-laminated timber, the observation tower rises above a wetland ecosystem, providing a functional space for wildlife observation and ecological education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with prefabricated steel fins that enhance structural integrity while promoting natural ventilation.
02
Elevated foundation minimizes environmental impact and allows for unimpeded water drainage.
03
Open internal spaces designed for flexible use, accommodating educational exhibits and community gatherings.
04
Perforated facade optimizes light penetration while reducing heat buildup.
05
Integrated boardwalk access connects the tower to the surrounding wetland without disturbing local wildlife.

### Project Overview

Located within a wetland area, the architectural intervention exemplifies modern design principles while respecting the natural environment. The project aims to achieve minimal visual and physical disruption to the landscape, blending innovative structural techniques with ecological awareness. This endeavor prioritizes functionality and aesthetic coherence, promoting a relationship between the built form and its surroundings.

### Spatial Configuration and Connectivity

The design features a tower structure that serves as a focal point for exploration and observation, allowing users to engage with the rich biodiversity of the wetland ecosystem. Internally, the tower is organized to facilitate various activities, with generous open spaces that encourage movement and interaction. Each level provides expansive views of the wetlands, reinforcing the concept of a sanctuary that immerses visitors in nature. A wooden boardwalk connects the tower to the shoreline, ensuring accessibility without impacting the ecological integrity of the site.

### Material Selection and Environmental Considerations

The project employs a range of materials that reflect both structural and aesthetic intentions. The foundation consists of a precast concrete plinth that elevates the tower and supports drainage systems, safeguarding the wetlands. The superstructure features timber columns for vertical support, enhancing the connection with the environment, while prefabricated steel fin panels create a modern façade that promotes natural ventilation and light infiltration. The use of stainless steel for the roof not only provides shelter but also interacts significantly with natural light, enhancing the overall user experience. Emphasizing ecological sensitivity, construction methods are designed to minimize disruption, aligning with bio-climatic principles that adapt to seasonal environmental changes.

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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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