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Hollow Core Structure Crafted from Natural Timber in a Sustainable Observation Tower

Author:
Namit Rajput
Hollow Core Structure Crafted from Natural Timber in a Sustainable Observation Tower

Project in-detail

A hollow core tower constructed with natural timber creates an inviting habitat for avian species while providing an elevated observation point for visitors to engage with the surrounding wetlands.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hollow core design supports bird nesting while enhancing user interaction.
02
Lattice framework allows significant natural light and visual connectivity.
03
Locally sourced pine wood contributes to sustainability and reduced footprint.
04
Integrated observation decks provide multiple viewing angles of the wetlands.
05
Ramped accessibility ensures inclusivity for all visitors.

### Project Overview
Located within a nature park renowned for its diverse avian population, the Bird Observation Tower is designed to enhance human-bird interactions while promoting ecological awareness. The structure integrates functional and artistic elements, resulting in an innovative space that serves as both an observation point and a habitat for local bird species.

### Structural and Spatial Strategy
The architecture features a distinctive egg-shaped exterior, constructed with a lightweight, transparent lattice framework that allows natural light to permeate the structure and provides a sense of openness. A central hollow core facilitates bird nesting, enabling a direct interaction between wildlife and visitors. Multiple observation decks, equipped with ramps for accessibility, offer unobstructed views of the surrounding wetlands, enhancing the experience for all visitors. The highest viewing deck is specifically designed for optimal birdwatching, allowing for observation of migratory patterns and nesting behaviors.

### Material Considerations
The tower employs a range of locally sourced materials, including natural pine wood for its durability and aesthetic appeal, thatch for roofing to provide thermal insulation and camouflage, and steel cables for structural integrity. Select sections incorporate glass to maximize visibility while maintaining the transparency theme. This careful selection of materials not only enhances the aesthetic coherence with the landscape but also prioritizes sustainability by reducing transportation emissions and supporting local ecosystems.

### Environmental Integration
Emphasizing ecological sensitivity, the design minimizes its visual and physical footprint within the park. The incorporation of a hollow core and strategic native plantings promotes biodiversity, directly supporting local wildlife. This approach is complemented by the use of sustainable materials, reinforcing the intent to harmonize the structure with its natural surroundings while fostering interaction between humans and nature.

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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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