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Engineered Wood Tower with Integrated Skyport for Eco-Research Focus

Author:
Henry Roberts
Engineered Wood Tower with Integrated Skyport for Eco-Research Focus
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Engineered wood forms the core structure of a vertical tower designed to function as a research facility and living space, complete with a skyport for efficient supply delivery and focused on enhancing sustainable forestry management efforts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for easy adaptability in various ecological contexts.
02
Incorporates a skyport for efficient delivery of supplies and equipment.
03
Engineered wood construction minimizes environmental impact and carbon footprint.
04
Includes off-grid amenities for water harvesting and greywater recycling.
05
Features dedicated observation areas for real-time forestry management.

The Forest Scraper is located in ecological corridors of China and Sub-Saharan Africa, where it aims to meet the growing need for sustainable living and forestry management. The design functions as both a residence and a research facility focused on environmental stewardship. By embracing a modular approach, the structure creates a space that integrates dwelling and work, fostering the simultaneous pursuit of ecological awareness and community engagement.

Structural Organization

Designed around a central core, the building maximizes the use of vertical space. Living areas for staff are arranged in layers, offering personal rooms alongside shared spaces. This layout strikes a balance between privacy and community interaction. Communal areas are positioned on higher floors to provide expansive views of the landscape, allowing occupants to feel connected to their natural surroundings.

Functional Amenities

The structure includes important research facilities and observation areas that are vital for monitoring forest health and managing resources. By housing these functions within the tower, the design supports continuous engagement with forestry practices. This addresses the unique challenges faced by reforestation efforts in the green belt regions.

Sustainable Practices

The Forest Scraper features off-grid living amenities, such as systems for rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling. These aspects enhance the building’s self-sufficiency and support its sustainable goals. The incorporation of energy-generating systems further reduces dependence on external resources, aligning with contemporary ecological standards.

Material Choice

Engineered wood is a key material in the construction of the Forest Scraper, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. This choice not only provides structural strength but also helps minimize the project’s carbon footprint. Using engineered wood exemplifies responsible sourcing and helps to address some of the environmental concerns linked to traditional building materials.

At the top of the structure, a skyport facilitates the efficient delivery of supplies. This design feature also ensures minimal disturbance to the natural environment surrounding the tower. It emphasizes a blend of function and environmental consideration, reinforcing the project's overall goal of promoting sustainable forestry and community welfare.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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