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Timber Façade Offering Uninterrupted Views in a Nature Reserve

Authors:
Xavier Zimmermann, Kevin Chung, Alix Falquet
Timber Façade Offering Uninterrupted Views in a Nature Reserve
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Constructed from wood and designed with a protective façade, the tower offers elevated vantage points for observing wildlife in a nature reserve while prioritizing accessibility and environmental integration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from wood to blend with the natural environment.
02
Incorporates a ramp for enhanced accessibility and visitor flow.
03
The design allows for multiple viewpoints to observe local wildlife.
04
Features a façade that protects visitors while minimizing wildlife disturbance.
05
Modular walkway system adapts to varying soil conditions on site.

The Saxaul Tower is located within a nature reserve that serves as a habitat for several bird species, including flamingos. The structure acts as a visual point along the visitor path and encourages observation of the local wildlife and plant life. The design emphasizes a respectful relationship with the environment while ensuring that visitors can connect with nature in a meaningful way.

Design Concept

The vision for the tower involves careful blending with the natural setting. Inspired by the small shrubs found in the area, the design aims for the structure to integrate smoothly into its surroundings while still standing out as a significant feature. This concept reflects a broader intent to raise awareness about ecological systems and promote an appreciation for nature among visitors.

Accessibility and Visitor Experience

A critical component of the design is a ramp, which allows for easy access for all visitors. The ramp is more than just a practical pathway; it enhances the visitor experience by providing a smooth, enjoyable route around the tower. Composed of modular sections, it creates various pathways that invite exploration and interaction with the landscape.

Protective Features

The tower’s façade serves multiple roles as a protective barrier. It shields visitors from sun and wind, creating a more comfortable experience. At the same time, it limits human visibility from the surrounding wildlife, helping to reduce disturbances. This aspect of the design underscores the goal of creating a structure that coexists respectfully within its natural environment.

Material Considerations

Wood is the main material used in the construction of the tower, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. This choice not only provides durability but also connects the structure to the surrounding landscape. The walkways are also made from distinct modular sections that adapt to different soil conditions, reinforcing the relationship between the tower and its setting.

The Saxaul Tower emphasizes both functionality and aesthetic harmony with its environment. Visitors are encouraged to engage with the landscape through thoughtfully designed pathways that respect both human activity and the local ecosystem.

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MICROHOME 2026
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The Next House: USA
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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100,000€ Prize / 2026

The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

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?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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