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Feathered Structure of Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Nestled Within a National Park

Authors:
Clemens Braun, Stefan Moosmann
Feathered Structure of Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Nestled Within a National Park

Project in-detail

A spiral form of layered wooden elements creates a feather-like structure that seamlessly integrates with the landscape while providing a functional observation facility for ornithological research.
5 key facts about this project
01
A spiral design inspired by feather structures enhances the tower's harmony with the natural environment.
02
Constructed entirely from sustainable cross-laminated timber panels, the project emphasizes eco-friendly materials.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide a weather-resistant exterior while giving a unique aesthetic quality.
04
Multiple observation platforms allow for diverse viewing angles, enhancing the user experience in nature.
05
Designed as a hub for ornithological research, the facility promotes interaction between scientists and wildlife.

# Analytical Report on the Sensitive Landmark Architectural Design Project

## Overview

The Sensitive Landmark is designed to integrate seamlessly within a national park context, reinforcing the connection between the built environment and the surrounding natural landscape. By prioritizing responsible human interaction, the design aims to facilitate engagement with the environment while maintaining a respectful distance from the ecosystem. The project embodies a conceptual framework that balances observation and protection, creating spaces that foster interaction without encroaching upon nature.

## Structural Design and User Experience

### The Tower

At the heart of the project is a spiral tower that emulates organic forms found in nature. Constructed predominantly from layered wood, the design features a capsule-like shape that blurs the distinction between natural and human-made environments. This structure includes multiple observation platforms that offer expansive views, enabling users to immerse themselves in the landscape. A straightforward bridge provides access, enhancing visitor mobility while sustaining a degree of separation from the terrain.

### Functional Spaces

The interior layout is carefully curated to support varied user experiences. The lower level functions as a secure and comfortable retreat for ornithologists, equipped with essential amenities such as a small table, chair, and stove. This design approach emphasizes practicality while fostering a connection to the landscape. Additional features include a ladder for vertical access and a footbridge that enables unobtrusive entry to the tower, further reinforcing the user-centric nature of the project.

## Material and Sustainability

### Material Selection

The choice of materials plays a critical role in the architectural narrative. The primary use of wood not only aligns aesthetically with the surroundings but also serves sustainability objectives. The layered wooden façade evokes the imagery of feathers, reinforcing the project's conceptual underpinnings. Complementarily, metal components are utilized for structural necessities like the ladder and chimney, introducing durability while providing a contrast to the warmth of the wood.

### Environmental Consideration

The design prioritizes an integration with nature that respects the existing landscape, allowing the tower's feathery silhouette to blend harmoniously into varying weather conditions. The heavy curtains within the observatory create flexible space divisions, facilitating both private and public engagements, while the chimney symbolizes warmth and comfort for extended use during colder periods.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

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

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