Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Weathered Corten Steel Structure Elevating Birdwatching Experiences Through Sustainable Larch Wood Design

Authors:
Giuseppe Guassardo, Natalia Pezzi, Francesca Basile, Claudia Zanfi
Weathered Corten Steel Structure Elevating Birdwatching Experiences Through Sustainable Larch Wood Design

Project in-detail

Crafted from weathered Corten steel and sustainable larch wood, the structure offers multiple elevated observation platforms designed to enhance the birdwatching experience while seamlessly integrating with the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using locally sourced Corten steel, the tower's weathered appearance integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
02
The multi-level design features vantage points that promote diverse birdwatching experiences across different elevations.
03
Larch wood is utilized for both durability and aesthetic warmth, contributing to the structure's organic feel.
04
Large cut-outs in the steel base allow for natural light and ventilation while echoing organic forms.
05
Accessibility features are incorporated throughout, ensuring all visitors can engage with the natural environment.

### Project Overview
The Pape Bird Observation Tower is located in a natural habitat conducive to avian observation and is designed to enhance the birdwatching experience. The intent is to create an unobtrusive structure that harmonizes with the surrounding environment while providing an elevated platform for observers. The design draws inspiration from organic forms found in nature, specifically the shapes of birdcages and eggs, to underscore its connection to the primary function of avian exploration.

### User Experience and Accessibility
The spatial configuration promotes an intuitive movement through various observation points, allowing users to engage with their surroundings effectively. The circular layout facilitates panoramic views, offering a comprehensive 360-degree perspective of the landscape. In consideration of inclusivity, the design integrates features that enhance accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges, thereby fostering community engagement and ensuring that the observation experience is available to a wider audience.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
A careful selection of materials reinforces the tower's environmental commitment. Structural elements include steel for its robustness and laminated wood for aesthetic and durable finishes. Larch wood, known for its decay resistance, ensures longevity in outdoor conditions, while Corten steel introduces an organic quality that evolves with the surrounding landscape. The design aims to minimize the carbon footprint, utilizing materials that blend with the natural environment and support the structure’s functionality as a birdwatching platform. Key design features such as layered observation platforms and a distinctive base with intricate cut-outs contribute both to the structure's visual appeal and its practical aspects, anchoring it within its natural context.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy