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Pixelated Observation Tower Enhancing Biodiversity Through Wood Design

Authors:
Ck Kong, Orchid Ma, Derek Chan
Pixelated Observation Tower Enhancing Biodiversity Through Wood Design

Project in-detail

A pixelated wooden structure rises within a biosphere reserve, providing a dynamic observation experience that fosters engagement with the local ecosystem and enhances biodiversity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Pixelated facade designed to mimic the surrounding natural patterns.
02
Constructed entirely from locally sourced wood to support sustainability.
03
Features innovative circulation pathways that enhance visitor experience.
04
Dedicated to fostering biodiversity through carefully considered spatial arrangements.
05
Strategically positioned to provide panoramic views of the Latvian landscape.

The observation tower is situated within a biosphere reserve and serves as a viewpoint that connects visitors with the surrounding landscape. Its pixelated design breaks up the structure into forms that fit naturally into the open environment. The tower’s concept focuses on enhancing the experience of looking at the horizon while promoting exploration of the area.

Design Concept

The design creates a varied spatial experience. Visitors move through thoughtfully designed pathways and platforms that change in height, leading them to different views. This gradual reveal of the landscape encourages engagement and curiosity. Each level offers a fragment of the entire view until reaching the top, where a complete panoramic scene awaits. This layered experience reflects how architecture can enhance one’s awareness of nature.

Materiality

Wood serves as an important material in the tower's construction. It provides a flexible structure that aligns well with the natural surroundings. Wood is also sustainable and supports the environmental theme of the design. Its warmth invites people to connect with the space on a sensory level. The choice of wood not only fulfills practical needs but also emphasizes a relationship with the ecosystem.

Ecological Integration

Attention to ecological impact is apparent in the design. The arrangement and form of the tower consider the habits of local wildlife, specifically the Latvian Ardennes. The pixelated layout creates spaces that support biodiversity while allowing people to enjoy the view. This approach fosters a deeper appreciation for the local environment and encourages visitors to reflect on their connection to nature.

The design of the observation tower highlights how built structures can coexist and integrate with the environment. Each detail, from the way visitors ascend to the careful choice of materials, contributes to a greater understanding of the biosphere reserve. The focus remains on creating an experience that invites contemplation of both architecture and nature.

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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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