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Floating Observation Tower Constructed with Acrylic and Carbon Fiber Over Wetland Ecosystem

Author:
Yueshen Mei
Floating Observation Tower Constructed with Acrylic and Carbon Fiber Over Wetland Ecosystem

Project in-detail

Constructed with acrylic and carbon fiber, the observation tower extends above the wetland, offering unobstructed views while preserving the surrounding ecosystem's integrity for enhanced avian observation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using acrylic and carbon fiber, the design achieves a lightweight, translucent structure.
02
The circular geometry enhances visibility and user engagement with the wetland environment.
03
Modular construction techniques reduce onsite assembly time and minimize ecological disruption.
04
A spiral staircase connects multiple observation levels, allowing varied perspectives without obstructing views.
05
The design prioritizes environmental sensitivity, floating above the wetland to preserve local habitats.

### Overview
The design for a bird observation tower and bridge, named "Oneiric Drift," is strategically situated within a wetland ecosystem, intended to provide an immersive experience for visitors. The project emphasizes minimal intrusion into the natural environment by employing a light and transparent structure that enhances visitor engagement without disrupting the surrounding habitat. The design is characterized by a circular geometry, promoting unobstructed views and efficient spatial organization within the tower.

### Structural and Spatial Strategy
The observation tower and bridge feature a circular base, optimizing observation points and facilitating user flow throughout the structure. The integration of a series of interconnected platforms, linked by a spiral staircase, enhances navigational experiences as users ascend and descend. This tiered approach allows for multiple viewing heights, offering diverse perspectives of the wetland environment and encouraging active engagement with the natural landscape.

### Materials and Sustainability
The project prioritizes sustainability by minimizing environmental impact and avoiding significant alterations to the wetland ecosystem. A suspension system is used to ensure structural integrity while maintaining a floating effect above the water. Key materials include acrylic glass for the main viewing platforms, providing clarity and resistance; high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for durability in structural components; stainless steel for strength and corrosion resistance; and carbon fiber for lightweight design elements. This selection of materials not only supports functionality but also enhances the aesthetic quality of the structure.

The construction methodology involves prefabricated components to simplify assembly and reduce on-site impacts. Installation is executed from the top down to optimize load distribution, and interlocking elements in the bridge reinforce structural stability, further contributing to the design's lightweight appearance.

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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

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