Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Sloped Deck Crafted From Warm Wood Cladding and Painted Steel for Immersive Wildlife Observation

Author:
TONY LEUNG
Sloped Deck Crafted From Warm Wood Cladding and Painted Steel for Immersive Wildlife Observation

Project in-detail

Elevated above the landscape, a sloped deck of warm wood cladding and painted steel provides an unobtrusive platform for birdwatching, seamlessly integrating with its natural surroundings while prioritizing accessibility for all visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
The deck features a sloped ramp designed for full accessibility, accommodating all visitors.
02
Constructed primarily of warm wood cladding, the design harmonizes with the surrounding environment.
03
High walls around the deck create an enclosed observation area while minimizing wildlife disturbance.
04
Integrated top-hung folding panels allow users to control visibility and privacy during observation.
05
The project incorporates local cultural symbolism, drawing inspiration from a Latvian grain stalk.
"Jumis" represents an architectural endeavor designed as a birdwatching deck situated within a natural landscape. The project embodies a blend of functionality and aesthetic coherence while emphasizing its role in promoting interaction with nature. The design draws inspiration from the double spiked stalk of grain, symbolizing prosperity and fertility, which aligns the structure with both cultural and environmental significance.

The primary function of the "Jumis" structure is to facilitate birdwatching and nature observation, while minimizing human impact on the surrounding wildlife. The design incorporates an elevated deck that gradually ascends into the environment, allowing visitors to engage with the landscape without disrupting the natural habitat. This approach reflects an understanding of the need for sustainable architecture in natural settings.

The deck features key structural components including a robust steel frame and warm wood cladding. The 30mm thick wood board cladding provides durability and visual harmony with the environment, while the painted steel frame ensures structural integrity. The ramping form, designed for accessibility, allows all visitors, including those with disabilities, to experience the elevated views. This thoughtful design creates a welcoming interface between human users and wildlife viewing.

Unique to this project is the implementation of a sloped pathway, which serves as both a physical and visual connection to nature. High walls around the deck offer a sense of enclosure and privacy, preventing disturbance to the wildlife. At the upper levels, two distinct viewing areas provide expansive vistas while integrating top-hung folding panels that adjust visibility and privacy as needed. This flexibility enhances user experience and interaction.

Additionally, the inclusion of folding desktops provides functional spaces within the deck, encouraging social interaction among visitors while maintaining an unobtrusive design language. The seamless circulation between the two decks ensures that the flow of user movement does not disrupt the intended experience of birdwatching.

The "Jumis" project stands out from other birdwatching facilities through its innovative approaches to materiality and form. The commitment to ecological sensitivity distinguishes this project within contemporary architectural discourse. Rather than prioritizing architectural spectacle, "Jumis" emphasizes harmony with its surroundings, ensuring that the design outcomes promote conservation, sustainability, and cultural identity.

In summary, the "Jumis" birdwatching deck exemplifies a conscious architectural effort focused on enriching user experience and preserving ecological integrity. The careful selection of materials, structural clarity, and adaptable design features position it as a noteworthy contribution to the field. For further insights, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs of the project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy