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Spiral Timber Structure with Thatch Roof Overlooking Wetlands

Author:
Weston williamson + partners
Spiral Timber Structure with Thatch Roof Overlooking Wetlands

Project in-detail

A spiral timber observation tower with a thatch roof offers expansive views of the wetlands, creating a functional space for birdwatching while integrating sustainable construction methods and local materials.
5 key facts about this project
01
A cone-shaped structure enhances stability while providing panoramic views.
02
Local timber slats create a natural aesthetic while ensuring durability.
03
The thatch roof integrates traditional building techniques with modern design.
04
Screw piles minimize environmental impact and ensure foundation stability.
05
Multiple observation platforms allow for dynamic engagement with the surroundings.

### Project Overview

The Pape Bird Observation Tower is situated in the Pape region, serving as a birdwatching platform that integrates with a footbridge. This structure allows visitors to observe birds in their natural habitat while commemorating the previous observation tower that once existed on the site. The design reflects a balance between functionality and the ecological context, providing an opportunity for engagement with the surrounding wetlands.

### Spatial Strategy

The design employs a cone-shaped structure with a spiraling staircase that facilitates both circulation and observation. As visitors ascend, they encounter a series of viewing platforms that offer panoramic views, enabling a continuous interaction with the environment. This tiered layout not only enhances accessibility but also fosters an immersive experience in the natural landscape. The architectural form evokes a fluid journey upward, encouraging users to appreciate the ecosystem from multiple vantage points.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Sustainability is a core consideration in the selection of materials used for the tower. The roofing features a 300mm thatch layer, which reflects local building traditions while providing insulation and weather resistance. The primary structure is composed of locally sourced timber, inclusive of 150mm thick timber slats for flooring, emphasizing eco-friendliness and supporting local economies. The foundation employs screw piles for stability in wet conditions, minimizing environmental disruption. Additionally, timber batten walls create a balance of transparency and protection, allowing for observation of wildlife while facilitating airflow. These material choices collectively illustrate a commitment to environmentally responsible design.

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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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