Architecture project // Woven Mesh and Elevated Timber Pods in a Focused Avian Habitat

Woven Mesh and Elevated Timber Pods in a Focused Avian Habitat

Author:

Enrico Daffonchio

Elevated timber pods constructed with woven mesh create immersive observation points for birdwatching, enhancing interactions with avian life while ensuring minimal environmental impact.

5 key facts about this project

Elevated walkways minimize ecological disturbance while providing access to the habitat.

Woven mesh exteriors allow for natural light filtration and enhanced visibility of surrounding environments.

The design incorporates multiple pod functions, including dedicated spaces for observation, interaction, and relaxation.

Use of sustainably sourced timber materials emphasizes environmental responsibility in construction.

Strategically positioned pods encourage immersive experiences in birdwatching and ecosystem appreciation.

General keywords

avifauna recreation education observation pods water nature environment interaction landscape

Project specific keywords

steel wood mesh elevation panorama nesting observation pathways habitat aquatic

### Overview

The installation "Ornaments: An Avian Playground" is designed to encourage engagement with avian habitats through a series of innovative structures. Located within an urban context, the concept reflects on the relationship between humans and nature, particularly addressing the impact of urban development on bird environments. The design promotes interaction and exploration, creating a unique space that invites visitors to experience the natural world through a playful lens.

### Spatial Strategy and Circulation

The layout consists of several distinct structures known as "pods," each designated for specific activities: the 360 Pod, Sky Pod, Water Pod, and Nesting Pods. Pathways constructed from a lightweight steel grid facilitate movement through the site, allowing for a meandering journey rather than a straightforward path. This configuration emphasizes exploration, mirroring the migration patterns of birds and integrating visitor movement with the surrounding landscape.

### Materiality and Structural Elements

The project employs a thoughtful selection of materials, balancing durability with aesthetic appeal. The steel framework serves as the primary structural support, providing resilience while contributing an industrial contrast to the natural setting. Interior elements of the pods utilize wood, evoking natural nesting materials and reinforcing connections to avian habitats. Additionally, woven mesh is incorporated into the pod design, facilitating an interplay of light and shadow that enhances the spatial experience.

The 360 Pod features an expansive viewing platform for panoramic observation, while the Sky Pod is elevated to offer intimate birdwatching conditions. The Water Pod, designed to engage visitors at the water's edge, invites tactile interaction with the environment. Lastly, the Nesting Pods provide secluded spaces for quiet reflection on nature. In each aspect, the design respects the existing ecosystem, with elevated walkways minimizing ecological disturbance.