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Petal-Inspired Observation Tower Crafted From Glulam and Straw Bales Integrating Into Wetland Ecosystem

Authors:
Chi-yin Lee, Amanda Huang, Zakary ka hou Man, Clarabelle Pong
Petal-Inspired Observation Tower Crafted From Glulam and Straw Bales Integrating Into Wetland Ecosystem

Project in-detail

Crafted from glulam and straw bales, the observation tower's petal-like structure seamlessly integrates with the wetland ecosystem, providing visitors with an elevated platform for immersive birdwatching experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from locally sourced glulam and straw bales for enhanced sustainability.
02
Petal-like structural design allows for multiple observation platforms with varying sightlines.
03
Central steel core enables flexibility in the tower's outer shell while maintaining stability.
04
Natural ventilation integrated into the design promotes energy efficiency and comfort.
05
Strategically positioned to minimize disturbance to local wildlife during birdwatching activities.

## Project Overview
The bird observation tower, named "SEED," is located in Pape Nature Park in southwestern Latvia, an area notable for its diverse migratory bird population, with over 200 species recorded. The design of the tower aims to enhance the birdwatching experience, allowing visitors to observe wildlife closely while maintaining a respectful distance from their natural habitats. This structure serves as a significant addition to the park, promoting environmental engagement and interaction.

## Architectural Form and User Experience
The tower's architectural composition consists of a modular design with petal-like sections that rise upwards, which not only creates a visually engaging silhouette but also facilitates optimal viewing for birdwatchers. The top platform, mezzanine level, and connecting footbridge offer multiple vantage points for exploring the wetlands. These various configurations encourage visitors to discover the surrounding environment, with an emphasis on exploration and unobtrusive interaction with nature.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The project incorporates a thoughtful selection of materials that align with the ecological values of the park. Primary materials include straw bales for insulation, glulam timber for structural support, steel brackets for integrity, and glass composites to maximize natural light and provide clear views. This material palette not only emphasizes sustainability but also connects the structure visually and environmentally to its surroundings. By using local and carbon-neutral materials, the design minimizes ecological footprints while enhancing the overall aesthetic coherence of the tower with the natural landscape.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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