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Elevated Viewing Platforms Crafted from Charred Timber and Composite Wood in Ecologically Sensitive Wetland

Authors:
Wen Hong Yew, Wei Yee Chong, Teik Wei Tew, Mei Zhen Yon
Elevated Viewing Platforms Crafted from Charred Timber and Composite Wood in Ecologically Sensitive Wetland

Project in-detail

Charred timber accents and elevated platforms provide unobstructed views of migratory birds in a thoughtfully designed infrastructure that enhances visitor interaction with the delicate wetland ecosystem.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance while providing a natural aesthetic.
02
Elevated platforms minimize land disturbance, preserving native vegetation below.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels improve structural integrity and sustainability.
04
Adaptive design elements accommodate seasonal weather changes for year-round use.
05
Strategic viewing points optimize wildlife observation without intrusive human presence.

The architectural project located at Pape Nature Park in Latvia is designed to enhance the visitor experience while respecting and preserving the natural ecosystem of the area. The project features elevated observation platforms that provide unobstructed views of the diverse wildlife inhabiting the region, particularly during migratory seasons. The design aligns with the landscape’s contours, facilitating a seamless interaction between infrastructure and environment, which is essential in an area recognized for its ecological significance.

The primary function of this architectural endeavor is to serve as a space for wildlife observation and educational outreach. By incorporating walking paths, viewing decks, and observation areas, the design actively encourages engagement with nature, allowing visitors to appreciate the park's unique biodiversity without disturbing its delicate balance. The structure integrates accessibility features to ensure that all visitors, including those with mobility impairments, can fully experience the offerings of the park.

Unique Design Solutions

This project distinguishes itself through its thoughtful integration of the surrounding habitat. Elevated platforms are supported by slender steel columns, which minimize the physical footprint on the land. The choice of materials, including composite wood for decking, steel for structural components, and concrete for foundations, emphasizes sustainability. Composite wood enhances durability while maintaining an organic aesthetic in line with the natural environment, whereas steel and concrete provide the necessary stability.

The design incorporates adaptive features to manage seasonal changes in weather while ensuring functionality year-round. These include shaded areas for sun protection and covered sections for inclement weather. The layout encourages movement within the park, with paths designed to lead visitors through various viewing points, reinforcing the notion of exploration and discovery.

Architectural Details and Environmental Impact

The architectural detailing emphasizes a commitment to minimizing environmental impact. The slender columns elevate the structure above the ground, preserving the native flora and fauna by allowing natural growth beneath. The landscaping surrounding the platforms is carefully curated to maintain the integrity of the local ecosystem while supporting biodiversity. The project emphasizes collaboration with local conservation agencies to ensure its practices align with ecological management goals.

Visitors will find viewing decks strategically placed to provide optimal sightlines for observing bird migration, particularly during peak seasons. The architectural design prioritizes functionality while remaining unobtrusive, creating a harmonious relationship between human activity and wildlife conservation.

For an in-depth look at the architectural plans, sections, and other design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation to gain a comprehensive understanding of the architectural strategies and ideas that shape this unique endeavor. Understanding the architectural designs and the thoughtful considerations behind them can provide valuable insights into contemporary practices in ecological architecture.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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