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Skeletal Structure of Charred Wood and Glass Enhancing Avian Observation in Natural Habitat

Author:
Krishna Rao
Skeletal Structure of Charred Wood and Glass Enhancing Avian Observation in Natural Habitat
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Constructed with a skeletal frame of charred wood and expansive glass, the observation hide serves as an unobtrusive vantage point for bird watchers, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding landscape while enhancing environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using a bent A-frame design that optimizes structural stability while enhancing aesthetics.
02
Employs charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance, integrating with the natural surroundings.
03
Features extensive glass panels to maximize natural light and eliminate visual barriers to the environment.
04
Incorporates anti-skid structural timber flooring to ensure safety in high-traffic observation areas.
05
Strategically elevated to minimize ecological footprint and provide diverse vantage points for bird watchers.

## Project Overview

Located within a diverse nature park in Latvia, the Doorbeen project, known as The Twitchers' Hide, is designed to enhance the bird-watching experience by providing structured observation points that interact harmoniously with the surrounding environment. The architectural intent centers on creating a contemplative atmosphere that encourages engagement with nature while addressing the needs of visitors.

### Spatial Dynamics and User Experience

The design concept is inspired by a giant binocular, promoting a dynamic and horizontal layout that guides users through a series of ascending vantage points. These gradual transitions are intended to optimize views of the landscape and wildlife, allowing for diverse perspectives and experiences. The layout incorporates distinct pathways that mimic natural bird movement, leading visitors through various observation areas and facilitating exploration.

### Materiality and Structural Design

The project employs a combination of timber, glass, and steel, creating a balance between warmth and modernity. Timber is used extensively, providing aesthetic visual appeal and structural integrity, while thick glass elements minimize barriers, enhancing connections with the outdoors. A skeletal framework clad in wooden slats allows diffused light to enter the structure and creates a visually striking façade that merges with the natural surroundings.

The architectural strategy includes strategic positioning to respect the site's topography, elevating the structure to reduce its ecological impact. This approach incorporates natural ventilation and aesthetic contributions from local flora, ensuring the building is energy-efficient and integrated within its environment. Observation decks at varying heights enhance the visitor experience by altering perceptions of the landscape and fostering a sense of discovery.

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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.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
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