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Hexagonal Mesh and Steel Structure Enhancing Biodiversity in a Wetland Observation Tower

Author:
Devasri Jeganathan
Hexagonal Mesh and Steel Structure Enhancing Biodiversity in a Wetland Observation Tower

Project in-detail

Using a unique hexagonal mesh combined with a steel structure, the flamingo observation tower enhances biodiversity within a wetland while providing visitors multi-level access to birdwatching experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
The observation tower allows for unobstructed views from multiple levels.
02
The design includes a courtyard for visitor gathering and relaxation.
03
Hexagonal openings connect interior and exterior views dynamically.
04
A lightweight structure minimizes visual heaviness, enhancing landscape integration.
05
Biodiversity efforts aim to attract various wildlife through plant diversity.

The Spire is a flamingo observation tower designed to connect closely with a diverse wetland ecosystem filled with plant and animal life. It provides a platform for visitors, allowing them to observe flamingos and other bird species in their natural habitat. The design focuses on the relationship between people and nature, creating an experience that encourages exploration and understanding of the environment.

Design and Functionality

The tower includes several viewing levels, each offering different perspectives for visitors. This design allows individuals to see wildlife from multiple angles, enhancing their experience. A central courtyard is part of the design, serving as a gathering space where people can relax and take in the surroundings. This feature adds to the overall enjoyment of the site.

Structural Innovation

A prominent characteristic of The Spire is its integrated column that also functions as a viewing platform. This approach moves away from traditional column designs, creating a more open and inviting space. The lower platform encourages visitors to engage closely with the landscape. It also leads toward a bird hide, making the journey through the area thoughtful and accessible for everyone.

Material Considerations

The materials used include steel tubes and a hexagon mesh that is produced with a 3D printer. The steel tubes are made off-site, while the hexagonal mesh is assembled on-site, resulting in a lightweight structure. The design uses a metal mesh floor slab on the ramp to maintain the tower's structural efficiency and visual appeal.

Biodiversity Integration

The Spire focuses on enhancing biodiversity within the wetland. By increasing the variety of plants in the area, the design aims to attract more wildlife. This aspect highlights the importance of creating spaces where nature can thrive alongside human activities.

The hexagonal openings in the structure create interesting views of the surrounding landscape while allowing natural light to enter. This design choice connects visitors with the wetland, making it a vital part of their experience.

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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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