Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Elevated Viewing Experience Crafted from Natural Wood and Steel in Wetland Habitat

Authors:
Glenn Williams, Mara Graham-Dworsky
Elevated Viewing Experience Crafted from Natural Wood and Steel in Wetland Habitat

Project in-detail

Constructed with vertical wooden slats and reinforced steel, the observation tower offers a dynamic ascent through wetland grasses while providing an immersive experience for birdwatching enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a spiraling ramp that mimics the flight path of birds.
02
Utilizes vertical wooden slats to create a visual connection with surrounding grasslands.
03
Incorporates a mix of natural materials, including engineered timber and steel reinforcements.
04
Designed to provide multiple observation platforms at varying heights for enhanced viewing.
05
Integrates sheltering elements within the slats to accommodate both birds and visitors.

## Overview

Located within a natural grassland, the Pape Bird Observation Tower is designed to enhance the bird-watching experience while encouraging engagement with the surrounding environment. The structure stands at 50 meters and features a gentle ramp that mimics the ascent of birds, providing visitors with an immersive journey from ground level to panoramic views of the avian habitat. The architectural intent focuses on fostering a deep connection between observers and the wildlife, reinforcing the ecological significance of the site.

### Form and Functionality

The tower’s design incorporates vertical slats resembling grass, creating a visual link with the surrounding landscape. These slats vary in height and density, providing sheltered spaces for both birds and visitors, thereby simulating a natural habitat. The spiraling ramp invites physical engagement, guiding users toward an elevated observation point that offers expansive views of the sanctuary. This interactive journey promotes both contemplation and physical activity, reflecting the organic experience of flight.

### Material Selection

A careful selection of materials underpins the tower’s design, aligning with local ecological practices. Wood serves as the primary structural element, connecting the structure to the region's agricultural history. Metal components provide necessary structural integrity while introducing a modern contrast. Concrete materials ensure durability, and glass elements enhance visibility and light penetration, allowing for unobstructed views. This thoughtful integration of materials creates a cohesive visual narrative, reinforcing the tower’s relationship with its natural surroundings.

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