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Floating Ecosystems and Curvilinear Pathways with Treated Timber Structures for Enhanced Birdwatching Experiences

Authors:
Mohammed Alhamoudi, Tanya Sharma, Mathew Townsley
Floating Ecosystems and Curvilinear Pathways with Treated Timber Structures for Enhanced Birdwatching Experiences
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Elevated viewing pods constructed from treated wood and designed with curvilinear pathways integrate seamlessly into a floating ecosystem, enhancing the birdwatching experience within Pape Nature Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated pods feature triangular paneling for optimal daylight and ventilation.
02
Curvilinear pathways guide visitors through the natural landscape seamlessly.
03
Floating ecosystem designed to attract both resident and migratory bird species.
04
Modular construction allows for flexible assembly on-site or prefabrication.
05
Utilizes pressure-treated wood to minimize environmental impact and enhance durability.

### Project Overview
Located in Pape Nature Park, the Avian Acquisition project aims to enhance birdwatching experiences while promoting ecological awareness and biodiversity. By thoughtfully integrating observation spaces with the existing natural habitat, the design encourages visitors to engage with both local and migratory bird populations through strategically placed viewing platforms and environmental features.

### Architectural Elements
**Viewing Pods**: Two lakeside pods serve as primary observation points. Constructed from pressure-treated wood, these lightweight structures feature triangular paneling that harmonizes with natural forms, providing ample natural light and ventilation. Elevated platforms offer unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, enriching the visitor experience.

**Boardwalk Pathway**: The connecting boardwalk, composed of pressure-treated wood for durability, winds gently through the landscape. This design invites a leisurely pace, encouraging visitors to explore and interact with their environment more fully.

**Floating Ecosystem**: An engineered fish habitat and floating gardens aim to attract migratory birds closer to the viewing areas. This ecosystem not only serves as a food source for wildlife but also offers a practical demonstration of sustainable water management and ecological restoration practices.

### Materiality
The project employs a selection of materials prioritizing sustainability and structural efficiency. Pressure-treated wood ensures longevity against environmental factors, while steel joint plates reinforce the structural framing without significant weight. Additionally, the durable, weather-resistant shingled roof panels maintain a visual connection to the surrounding environment.

### Spatial Dynamics
The design promotes a multi-sensory experience by providing varied visual perspectives across different ecosystems, such as marshes and prairies. Integration with the natural terrain and local flora cultivates deeper connections between visitors and the ecosystem, encouraging meaningful engagement with the park's biodiversity.

### Unique Aspects
**Modular and Accessible Design**: The viewing pods and boardwalk pathways can be prefabricated or assembled on-site, allowing for adaptability to specific site conditions and ensuring a more efficient installation process.

**Sustainable Practices**: Emphasizing minimal ecological disruption, the project implements strategies such as the use of renewable materials and habitat restoration, showcasing a commitment to environmental stewardship throughout its construction and operational phases.

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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.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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