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Timber Cassettes and Glass Panoramas Create Elevated Wildlife Observations in Sustainable Design

Authors:
James Alder, Hafsteinn ævar Jóhannsson
Timber Cassettes and Glass Panoramas Create Elevated Wildlife Observations in Sustainable Design
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Constructed from timber cassettes and integrating expansive glass panels, the design elevates wildlife observation while harmonizing with the natural landscape of Pape Nature Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with modular timber cassettes to enhance efficiency and sustainability.
02
Features expansive glass panels for unobstructed views of the surrounding wetlands.
03
Incorporates a design that reflects local folklore through its aesthetic and structure.
04
Elevated platforms facilitate diverse wildlife observation opportunities.
05
Accessible ground-level pathways integrate seamlessly with the natural landscape.

### Project Overview

**Project Title:** Jumis Tower
**Competition:** Pape Bird Observation Tower Competition, 2017
**Location:** Pape Nature Park, Latvia

Jumis Tower is an architectural intervention designed as an observation point within Pape Nature Park, an area recognized for its ecological diversity. This structure enhances the relationship between natural landscapes and human activity, serving to elevate the visitor experience while fostering appreciation for the surrounding environment.

### Structural Composition

The design features a two-part configuration comprising an observation tower and a ground-level viewing deck. This arrangement creates opportunities for both vertical exploration and immersive engagement with the landscape. Innovations in structural systems, notably modular construction techniques, facilitate efficient assembly while ensuring structural integrity. The design incorporates a unique grid layout that becomes a defining feature of the tower's silhouette.

### Material Selection and Environmental Considerations

Attention to materiality is pivotal to the Jumis Tower's design, utilizing concrete for durability, timber for its aesthetic alignment with local traditions, glass to optimize natural light and sightlines, and steel for reinforcement. The integration of timber cassettes enhances rapid prefabrication and reflects the region's cultural heritage. Additionally, the elevated structure minimizes ecological disruption, allowing local wildlife to thrive unimpeded. Surrounding landscaping with native flora further reinforces the connection to the park's ecosystem, creating a cohesive experience for visitors.

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Celebrating Visionary Design: The Buildner Unbuilt Award 2026

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The Buildner Unbuilt Award 2026 celebrates visionary unbuilt architectural projects that explore creativity and innovation. Open to architects, designers, and students worldwide, the competition welcomes submissions 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).

With a total prize fund of €100,000, each category winner receives €20,000, alongside student prizes of €5,000 and a €10,000 Best Presentation Award. Winners will also be featured internationally and presented with the Continuum Trophy designed by Germans Ermičs.

Registration runs from 31 October 2025 to 23 September 2026, with submissions due by 20 October 2026 and results announced on 1 December 2026. More information is available at architecturecompetitions.com 

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 September 2026

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