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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
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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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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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