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Observation tower featuring cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles in a culturally rich landscape

Authors:
Román jesús Cordero tovar, Izbeth katia Mendoza fragoso
Observation tower featuring cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles in a culturally rich landscape

Project in-detail

Nestled in the Latvian landscape, this observation tower uniquely blends cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles to create a functional space that celebrates local wildlife and cultural heritage through its thoughtfully integrated design and materials.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The tower’s bent A-frame design allows for optimal stability while creating a visually distinctive silhouette against the landscape.
02
Charred wooden shingles are employed not only for aesthetic appeal but also to enhance weather resistance and longevity.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to the structure's sustainable footprint, utilizing locally sourced materials that minimize environmental impact.
04
The design integrates ornamental patterns inspired by traditional Latvian textiles, creating a cultural narrative that enriches the visitor experience.
05
Dual stairways interweave through the structure, offering diverse exploration routes while encouraging interaction with both the tower and its natural surroundings.
The Pape Bird Observation Tower, designed with thoughtful attention to its environment and cultural context, serves as an important architectural project that provides both functionality and aesthetic charm. Positioned within the captivating landscape of Latvia, the tower represents a fusion of nature and cultural memory, inviting visitors to engage with the surrounding ecosystem while also reflecting on Latvian heritage. Its primary function is to serve as an observation point for birdwatching, allowing visitors to appreciate the local avifauna in their natural habitat.

The design of the tower is characterized by its hexagonal form, which draws inspiration from traditional architectural shapes often found in lighthouses. This form not only enhances structural stability but also promotes an experience that allows users to feel connected to both the earth and the sky. The design emphasizes verticality, encouraging visitors to ascend and explore while fostering a sense of curiosity and adventure. The layers of the tower are interconnected through the use of dual staircases, creating a dynamic flow that allows multiple paths—encouraging exploration from various angles and heights. Each ascent offers a new perspective on the landscape, making the journey just as important as the destination.

The materials used in the construction of the Pape Bird Observation Tower contribute significantly to its overall expression. Predominantly crafted from wood, the structure highlights sustainability and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. This choice enhances the tower’s connection to the natural surroundings, blending it into the scenic environment. In contrast, thoughtfully selected colored metal handrails add a contemporary touch while incorporating patterns reminiscent of treasured Latvian textile designs. This fusion of tradition and modernity underscores the project's commitment to honoring cultural history while embracing innovative design approaches.

Critical components of the design include the contact platform at the base, which functions as a gathering space for visitors. This area allows users to orient themselves and enjoy a communal experience before embarking on the ascent. The observation terrace, equipped with integrated seating, offers a space for visitors to pause and absorb the panoramic views. The overall experience is designed to foster contemplation and connection, encouraging a deeper engagement with both the structure and the landscape it inhabits.

Unique design approaches manifest not only in the tower's physical attributes but also in its conceptual underpinnings. The integration of cultural motifs elevates the project from a mere observation tower to a landmark that embodies Latvian identity. This thoughtful incorporation of local artistic traditions allows the tower to tell a story, inviting visitors to reflect on the significance of the space as they observe the wildlife and the ever-changing vistas.

In essence, the Pape Bird Observation Tower is a testament to architecture that serves not just a functional purpose but also enriches the visitor experience while enhancing the natural environment. By harmonizing modern design with deep cultural roots, the project offers a meaningful way to observe, engage with, and appreciate the nuances of both the built and natural worlds.

For those interested in exploring the Pape Bird Observation Tower further, reviewing architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide additional insights into the thoughtful ideas and meticulous design processes behind this engaging project. Dive into the details to truly appreciate the craftsmanship and vision that inform this remarkable architectural endeavor.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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