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Elevated Viewing Platforms Crafted From Laminated Timber Panels Enhancing Avian Interaction

Author:
Dilan Ramos
Elevated Viewing Platforms Crafted From Laminated Timber Panels Enhancing Avian Interaction

Project in-detail

Elevated platforms constructed from laminated timber panels provide an unobtrusive vantage point for observing avian life in a marshy ecosystem, fostering a deeper connection between visitors and nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated platforms align with migratory bird pathways to enhance observation opportunities.
02
Constructed using environmentally sustainable cross-laminated timber panels for durability and aesthetics.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance while integrating with the natural landscape.
04
A bent A-frame design optimizes structural support and minimizes visual impact on the environment.
05
Educational signage along the walkway promotes awareness of local avian species and their habitat.

### Project Overview
The "Walkway to Sky" is situated in a marshy ecological site, designed to enhance the experience of bird-watching and foster a deeper interaction between visitors and the natural environment. The primary intent is to promote environmental awareness by immersing individuals in the habitat of local avian species. The linear walkway culminates in elevated viewing platforms that are strategically oriented to observe and respect migratory patterns of birds.

### Spatial Configuration and Layout
The design incorporates a predominantly horizontal trajectory, extending into the surrounding landscape and integrating seamlessly with natural elements. Vertical supports, formed from wooden posts placed at varied angles, not only provide structural stability but also create an aesthetic dialogue with the vegetation. The central walkway serves as the main navigational artery, flanked by elevated platforms that optimize visibility for bird observation. Carefully placed openings within the structure frame specific vistas, directing attention to notable elements of the environment.

### Material Considerations
A selection of materials was made with an emphasis on ecological harmony and durability. Wood serves as the primary material, providing both structural integrity and a visual connection to the landscape. Steel beams reinforce the design's structural stability while maintaining a lightweight framework. Transparent glass elements function as unobtrusive barriers, ensuring safety without obstructing views. The treated wood finish emphasizes sustainability, enabling resistance to weathering while blending with the natural surroundings.

The project exemplifies ecological sensitivity through its innovative construction techniques and focus on preserving the local bird habitat, fostering both user engagement and ecological consciousness.

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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

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
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