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Feathered Facade of Charred Wood Enhanced by Elevated Observation in a Wetland Environment

Authors:
Jack Marston, Kiran Miltton, Joe Marston
Feathered Facade of Charred Wood Enhanced by Elevated Observation in a Wetland Environment

Project in-detail

Crafted with a feathered facade of charred wood, this elevated observation tower harmonizes with its wetland surroundings to provide an immersive experience for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower features a façade designed to mimic avian plumage, promoting aesthetic harmony with the surrounding environment.
02
It utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural stability while maintaining a lightweight profile.
03
Elevated by a bent A-frame design, the structure allows for panoramic views of the wetland, optimizing the birdwatching experience.
04
The charred wooden shingles not only contribute to visual appeal but also provide natural weather resistance.
05
The construction employed minimal-impact techniques to protect the local ecosystem during development.
The Pape Bird Observation Tower is a thoughtfully designed architectural project located in an expansive wetland area in Latvia. It serves as a dedicated space for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, seamlessly blending human interaction with the rich biodiversity of its surroundings. The architecture embodies a sensitive approach towards the environment, designed not only to facilitate observation but also to educate visitors on the local ecosystem.

Functionally, the tower is designed to provide elevated views of the wetland, allowing observers to engage with the landscape in a manner that is both immersive and unobtrusive. The structure rises gracefully above the natural terrain, presenting a compact vertical form that offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding marshes. The design emphasizes accessibility, featuring multiple levels that cater to various visitor experiences, from gathering knowledge about local bird species to enjoying the tranquility of the wetlands.

One of the key elements of the tower's design is its innovative use of materials. The façade is predominantly constructed with wood, which not only enhances the visual appeal but also complements the natural environment. The wooden slats, arranged to mimic the appearance of feathers, create a sense of organic movement, blending the structure into its backdrop. This layered façade is designed to optimize natural light while providing differing visual perspectives depending on the viewer's position.

The tower's foundation is carefully crafted to minimize environmental disruption. Elevated on concrete footings, it prevents contact with wetland water, ensuring the longevity of the structure and safeguarding the surrounding ecosystems. The steel framework supports the wooden superstructure, allowing for a lightweight yet structurally robust design. Additionally, the architecture incorporates movable louvres, which enhance the usability of the observation area while allowing for easy adjustments based on weather conditions and viewing preferences.

A critical aspect of the Pape Bird Observation Tower is the incorporation of curvilinear walkways that guide visitors through the site. These paths are thoughtfully designed to enhance the overall experience, encouraging exploration and interaction with various ecological viewpoints. They allow visitors to appreciate the diversity of the wetland while also maintaining a sense of connection to the observation tower itself.

The project exemplifies a unique design approach rooted in environmental sensitivity and functionality. By carefully choosing sustainable materials and prioritizing minimal impact construction methods, the tower reconciles human activity with the natural habitat it inhabits. This architectural design not only showcases the beauty of the local landscape but also fosters a deeper understanding of the ecology surrounding it.

For those interested in gaining a more detailed perspective of the Pape Bird Observation Tower, exploring the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas presented can provide valuable insights into this innovative project. The careful thought and design strategies behind this tower exemplify a harmonious relationship between architecture and nature, making it a noteworthy endeavor in the realm of landscape architecture.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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