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Faraday Cage Structure of Steel and Timber Overlooking Marshland Ecosystem

Author:
Moussa Mazraani
Faraday Cage Structure of Steel and Timber Overlooking Marshland Ecosystem
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Constructed as a protective Faraday cage, this watchtower combines a steel and timber structure with large glass facades to offer unobstructed views of the marshland, serving as a vital observation point for ecological study and appreciation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using a conductive mesh to act as a Faraday cage, enhancing lightning protection.
02
Integrates a unique lattice design with a combination of steel and naturally finished timber.
03
Features extensive glass facades that provide 360-degree views of the surrounding marshland.
04
Incorporates a winding timber pathway that connects the tower to the local ecosystem.
05
Designed for multiple observation levels, allowing for educational and recreational use.

### Overview
Pape's Watchtower is located in the marshlands of Pape, Latvia, an area known for its ecological significance and historical relevance. The design responds to the challenges posed by natural elements, particularly lightning, which historically impacted earlier structures in the region. This architectural intervention is intended to serve both as a functional observation point and as a symbolic representation of resilience in the face of environmental forces.

### Structural and Material Composition
The watchtower rises to a height of 9 meters, featuring a five-level configuration that includes two observation platforms. Its design employs a robust lattice framework of galvanized steel, ensuring structural integrity while providing a contemporary aesthetic. A wooden shell complements the steel, creating a contrast that blends organic and industrial materials. Expansive glass panels are integrated into the structure, allowing for panoramic views of the marshland and facilitating an immersive experience with the surrounding environment. The foundation is constructed from concrete, enhancing stability against various environmental stresses.

### Circulation and User Experience
Access to the watchtower is facilitated by a winding footbridge crafted from durable timber, which meanders through the lush marshland. This pathway enhances the user experience by inviting visitors into the landscape, fostering a sense of connection to the ecological context. As an educational platform elevated above the wetlands, the tower allows for unobtrusive wildlife observation and a deeper understanding of local ecological patterns, while the innovative Faraday cage design not only protects the structure from lightning but also engages with the natural phenomenon in a unique way.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

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