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Timber Structures with Steel Mesh Integration Designed for Birdwatching and Ecological Observation

Author:
Hossam Galal
Timber Structures with Steel Mesh Integration Designed for Birdwatching and Ecological Observation

Project in-detail

Utilizing timber and steel mesh, the design creates elevated viewing zones that facilitate birdwatching and ecological observation within a biodiverse Latvian landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural stability and sustainability.
02
Incorporates an innovative fog catcher fabric to collect atmospheric moisture for local flora.
03
Features steel mesh railings, providing safety while maintaining unobstructed views.
04
Designed with multiple viewing zones to facilitate different perspectives of the landscape.
05
Integrates educational displays that inform visitors about local biodiversity and ecosystems.

## Overview

The "Journey In Distanation" project is situated in Latvia, an area characterized by its rich biodiversity and numerous bird species. The design is intended to create an interactive experience, enabling visitors to engage with nature while observing local wildlife. This concept integrates functionality with ecological awareness, fostering a multi-sensory environment that encourages exploration and learning.

## Spatial Strategy and Design Elements

The architectural design features a pathway designed to elevate visitors through various ‘watching zones’ at differing heights, facilitating unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape. The tower, a central component, includes five distinct viewing platforms that enhance birdwatching activities and provide 360-degree views. Integrated shading mechanisms adapt to sunlight, improving visitor comfort. A footbridge with gentle slopes and ramps ensures accessibility for individuals of all ages and abilities, employing a 1:12 gradient to accommodate mobility challenges.

### Material Considerations

Material selection emphasizes sustainability and functionality. Timber is predominantly used for structural elements, providing both aesthetic and structural stability. Metal mesh is incorporated in railings to ensure safety while maintaining unobstructed views, crucial for birdwatching. The use of steel and aluminum enhances durability, particularly in outdoor settings. Innovative applications of fog catcher fabric facilitate water collection from air moisture, supporting local flora and fauna. Composite panels form the pathways and stairs, offering safety and adaptability to varying weather conditions. This thoughtful choice of materials reflects a commitment to harmonizing with the ecological environment while addressing practical construction needs.

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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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