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Nest-Inspired Structure Featuring Locally Sourced Wood and Straw Bales for Avian Observation

Author:
Ahmed Hassan
Nest-Inspired Structure Featuring Locally Sourced Wood and Straw Bales for Avian Observation
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Crafted from locally sourced wood and straw bales, this nest-like observation tower seamlessly integrates with its environment, providing a unique vantage point for studying migratory birds in their natural habitat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a nest-inspired design to enhance connection with bird habitats.
02
Constructed using locally sourced wood and straw bales for sustainability.
03
Features multiple viewing platforms for diverse birdwatching experiences.
04
Includes a footbridge that minimizes ecological disruption during access.
05
Supports ecological education by facilitating immersive nature observation.

## Overview
Located within Pape Nature Park, the House of Birds functions as a specialized facility for avian observation, designed to create a stable environment suitable for both migratory birds and human visitors. The project aims to enhance engagement with the natural ecosystem while providing a unique vantage point from which to observe bird behaviors in their natural habitat.

## Architectural Strategy
The design features a circular tower characterized by upward flow and projections that resemble bird feeders, enhancing its integration into the landscape. An elevated footbridge connects the structure to surrounding areas, minimizing disruption to the ecological balance. This approach fosters accessibility while promoting the natural terrain's integrity. The tower's layout includes multi-level viewing platforms that facilitate observation at various heights, allowing visitors to experience the site intimately from the entry level to upper observation areas.

## Material Selection and Sustainability
Material choice is integral to the project, emphasizing sustainability and ecological sensitivity. Locally sourced rough wood serves both structural and aesthetic purposes, harmonizing with the environment while reducing the carbon footprint. Straw bales are employed for insulation and wall construction, improving thermal efficiency and reflecting avian nesting patterns. These materials underscore a commitment to eco-friendly practices, all while engaging the local community in the building process and promoting broader conservation efforts.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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