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Spiral Observation Tower Constructed with Cedar and Eco-Materials Nestled in a Natural Landscape

Authors:
Sahil Saroy, Nicole Regier, Bianca Verwaayen, Stephanie Lima
Spiral Observation Tower Constructed with Cedar and Eco-Materials Nestled in a Natural Landscape
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Constructed with sustainable cedar and designed in a spiraled form, the observation tower offers elevated vantage points for wildlife enthusiasts to engage with the rich ecosystems of Pape National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from locally sourced cedar to minimize environmental impact.
02
Features a unique spiral staircase design that facilitates fluid movement between viewing levels.
03
Incorporates nesting spaces within the structure to support local avian species.
04
Utilizes recycled rubber tiles for flooring, enhancing sustainability and durability.
05
The open-roof design provides unobstructed 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape.

## Overview
Located in Pape National Park, Latvia, the Pape Bird Observation Tower serves as a facility for birdwatching and wildlife observation while emphasizing minimal environmental impact and community engagement. The design integrates with the natural landscape to foster an interactive experience for visitors while respecting the surrounding ecosystem.

## Spatial Strategy
The architectural layout consists of a central spiral staircase, representing the trunk of a tree, which connects multiple viewing platforms that mimic the crown of a tree. This design encourages an elevated experience of the natural environment, providing 360-degree views of the park. The ground floor incorporates accessible pathways that lead to the tower, ensuring a smooth transition for all visitors. The open rooftop area enables unobstructed wildlife observation, allowing users to engage with the habitat directly.

## Material Selection
The tower employs a range of sustainable materials that balance functionality with environmental consciousness. An exposed wood structure enhances aesthetic appeal while offering nesting spaces for local birds. Cedar shake panels provide a durable, cost-effective solution that integrates with the surroundings, while plywood sheathing and recycled rubber tiles contribute to structural integrity and sustainability. Steel support elements ensure safety and stability throughout the design. This careful selection of materials not only strengthens the structure but also reinforces the commitment to ecological sensitivity.

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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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