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Nest-Inspired Structure Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Timber for Birdwatching Education

Author:
Kanakorn Nualprapun
Nest-Inspired Structure Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Timber for Birdwatching Education

Project in-detail

A nest-inspired observation tower constructed with charred wooden shingles and sustainably sourced timber invites visitors to connect with avian life while promoting education and conservation in a natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Nest-inspired design enhances the visual connection to the surrounding ecosystem.
02
Constructed primarily from sustainable charred wooden shingles for durability.
03
Elevated platform offers unobstructed views for birdwatching and observation.
04
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
05
Features a unique bent A-frame design, optimizing both aesthetics and function.

### Project Overview

The Pape Bird Observation Tower is situated within Pape Park, an area recognized for its diverse wildlife. The design emphasizes simplicity and strives to harmonize with the natural environment, creating an elevated platform for birdwatching and nature appreciation. The intent is to foster a connection between visitors and the local ecosystem while enhancing the overall experience of the park.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The tower's design features minimalist architecture characterized by clean lines and an unobtrusive structure, which directs attention to the surrounding natural beauty. Vertical slats allow for natural light and unobstructed views while maintaining a sense of privacy. The first level offers an open concept reminiscent of traditional Thai architecture, promoting spatial connectivity with the environment. The upper deck serves as a viewing platform, enabling expansive vistas of the park, where visitors can observe a variety of bird species in their habitats.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Sustainable practices are central to the material selection for the tower. The primary material, sustainably sourced timber, reinforces the structure's connection to its natural surroundings and has been chosen for its ecological benefits and aesthetic qualities. Metal elements are utilized for structural stability. The wood façade is designed to weather naturally, ensuring longevity while blending with the park's landscape. This choice of materials reflects a commitment to eco-friendly construction and enhances the structure's integration into the environment.

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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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