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Thatched Roof Observation Platform Elevated Above Wetlands with Cape Cod Wood and Interactive Spaces

Author:
Clark Thenhaus
Thatched Roof Observation Platform Elevated Above Wetlands with Cape Cod Wood and Interactive Spaces
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A thatched roof observation platform, elevated on Cape Cod wood columns, provides interactive spaces for visitors to engage with the wetlands and their diverse avian life.
5 key facts about this project
01
The platform is elevated on slender wood columns to minimize ecological impact on the wetlands.
02
It features a thatched roof designed for optimal insulation and natural aesthetics.
03
Interactive spaces encourage visitor engagement with the local avian ecosystem.
04
The corkscrew pathway enhances the visual experience as visitors ascend.
05
Sustainable materials were sourced locally to reduce the project's carbon footprint.

### Project Overview

The Public Avian Platform Experience (PAPE) is situated within Pape Nature Park, an area known for its diverse ecosystems, particularly its wetlands and avian habitats. The intent of the design is to create an observatory that enhances educational and recreational opportunities for visitors while maintaining a respectful integration with the natural environment.

### Structural Composition and Spatial Organization

PAPE consists of three interconnected forms that rise above the ground, supported by slender columns to minimize visual disruption. This elevated structure provides expansive views of the surroundings while protecting the wildlife below. The design incorporates truncated roofs that create distinct viewing areas, encouraging a communal engagement with the landscape.

Circulation within the platform is designed as a corkscrew pathway, facilitating smooth transitions from the lower observation deck to the upper viewing area. Each level serves specific functions: the lower platform features informal seating and direct access to the natural surroundings, while the upper platform offers open gathering spaces and observation points suitable for educational activities.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration

The material selection for PAPE reflects a commitment to sustainability and local context. Structural elements include Cape Cod grey wood columns, prefabricated wood panels, and exterior thatch, all chosen for their lightweight properties and environmental harmony. Plywood and steel handrails enhance the functionality and safety of the space while maintaining an aesthetic connection to local building traditions.

The design emphasizes minimal ecological disruption by employing construction methods that require less heavy equipment, thereby preserving the integrity of the surrounding ecosystem. The structure’s dynamic roof interacts with natural light, fostering a connection between the built environment and the rhythms of nature while facilitating ongoing visitor engagement with the park's avian and aquatic life.

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

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