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One-Way Mirrored Glass Observation Tower Constructed with Modular Timber in a Natural Habitat

Authors:
Kayla Murrell, John Sirdevan, Douglas Peterson-hui
One-Way Mirrored Glass Observation Tower Constructed with Modular Timber in a Natural Habitat
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Utilizing one-way mirrored glass and modular timber construction, the observation tower offers an unobtrusive vantage point for wildlife enthusiasts to engage with avian life in its natural habitat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes one-way mirrored glass to allow discreet wildlife observation without disturbance.
02
Constructed with modular timber components to minimize construction time and ecological impact.
03
Features a spiral staircase that enhances visitor interaction with the surrounding environment.
04
Designed to resemble a natural bird nest, reinforcing its connection to the avian habitat.
05
Promotes ecological education by facilitating a direct connection between visitors and wildlife.

## Project Overview

Located in Pape Nature Park, Latvia, The Nest serves as a bird observation and habitat tower that integrates human activity within an ecological framework. The design prioritizes environmental sensitivity while facilitating an immersive experience for visitors, allowing greater interaction with the surrounding biodiversity. By drawing inspiration from a bird's nest, the structure embodies both shelter and observation, fulfilling its intent to create a space that promotes connection to nature.

## Spatial Configuration

### Structural Composition

The tower features a three-level design that enhances the observation experience. The ground level minimizes impact on the landscape and includes a spiral stairway that connects to the upper levels. On the second level, private viewing areas utilize one-way mirrored glass, allowing visitors to observe birds discreetly. The third level offers expansive views, simulating the sensation of being elevated among tree canopies, thus immersing visitors in the natural environment.

### Material Selection

The material palette emphasizes sustainability and visual harmony with the landscape. Primary materials include:

- **Wood**: Used extensively in the structure, representing organic architecture.
- **Steel**: Provides structural integrity while contributing to an airy aesthetic.
- **Glass**: One-way mirror glass facilitates unobstructed views and minimizes disturbance to wildlife.
- **Steel Mesh**: Utilized in stair details, this element connects different levels while maintaining a playful character.

This combination of materials not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the tower but also reinforces its commitment to environmental integration.

## Ecological Considerations

### Sustainable Design Strategies

The Nest is designed with ecological sensitivity in mind. Strategies include minimal ground disturbance and the use of pre-fabricated modular components, which streamline construction processes and reduce resource consumption. This approach supports a quicker assembly while minimizing the ecological footprint of the project.

### Community Engagement

The structure promotes increased public interest in biodiversity through its design, fostering opportunities for education and conservation awareness. By facilitating visual and physical connections to the environment, The Nest encourages visitors to appreciate and protect the surrounding ecosystems.

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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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

Open architecture competitions

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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge

AIA (American Institute of Architects) invites you to design affordable housing in Denver

Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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