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Vertical Louvers and Timber Columns Elevate Sustainable Observation in Wetland Ecosystem

Authors:
Dang khoa Cao, Phu trí Ton that
Vertical Louvers and Timber Columns Elevate Sustainable Observation in Wetland Ecosystem

Project in-detail

Constructed with vertical louvers and timber columns, the design provides a raised vantage point for ecological observation while blending seamlessly with the surrounding wetland environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with vertical louvers that optimize natural ventilation and sightlines.
02
Incorporates rainwater harvesting systems to promote sustainability.
03
Features a multi-tiered design for varied ecological observation perspectives.
04
Utilizes charred wood shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
05
Integrates educational spaces to foster community engagement with nature.

### Project Overview

The "Rhythm of Nature" bird watching tower is located within a nature reserve in southwestern Latvia, designed to enhance the experience of ecological observation. This architectural intervention aims to foster community engagement while promoting an appreciation for the local wetland ecosystem through a design that coexists with its surroundings.

### Spatial Strategy and Interaction

The tower features a multi-tiered layout that offers optimal viewing points at various elevations, allowing visitors to appreciate the diverse landscape and its wildlife from multiple perspectives. Carefully positioned walkways create a connection between the built environment and the natural terrain, facilitating a guided exploration through the wetlands. The structure’s overall design incorporates horizontal lines that reflect the rhythm of the landscape, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Wood serves as the primary construction material, fostering a sense of warmth and a direct connection to the environment. Key elements include wooden columns and decking, along with vertical louvers that enhance both functionality and visual integration. The foundation employs concrete to ensure stability while minimizing ecological disruption. Sustainability features are embedded throughout, including passive cooling systems, natural ventilation, and rainwater harvesting mechanisms, reinforcing the building's commitment to environmental stewardship. The sloped roof design further supports rain drainage, optimizing the structure's performance in the wetland setting.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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