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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

Project in-detail

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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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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