SYMBIOSIS

Interacting With The Wild Life

This project intends to explore how a built structure could allow people to get a close interaction with birds without interfering the wildlife in Pape Natural Park. Here, the bird observation tower is no longer an isolated artificial structure in the forest, but a carefully planned interface between observers and birds. Birds are expected to nest next to observers, in turn people can get closer viewing experiences. With one open area for birds and one close area for visitors, the project tries to decrease the influence of human activities, thus creating a symbiotic and harmonious environment.

Symbiosis: Project

The site locates in Pape Nature Park in Latvia. Considering general programs in the park and the optimum watching perspective, the main direction of the platform is determined. As for the local building material, pine accounts for the majority of the Latvia tree, however, it cannot be used as the main skeleton material because of its soft attribute. Spruce then becomes the primary construction material for its hard texture. Other types of wood serve as non-load-bearing partitions, furnitures and other accessories.

Symbiosis: Welcome

The bird observation tower is no longer an isolated architecture in the forest, but a sweet home for birds. The basic design principle is that people come here to appreciate the beauty of birds with the least interference. Three different locations of the stair case where people stay are being analyzed. The strategy is based on the spacious space for birds and less human interference. The module system is put forward to make the construction process easier. Birds can nest just next to observers, in turn people are able to get closer viewing experiences.

Symbiosis: Welcome

Two platforms with relatively nicer views are placed in different levels, adding more spatial layers to this small installation. Louvers covering the stair case keep the area that people often use relatively separated from the space birds stays. The space enclosure makes the two part of users connected while giving them most of the freedom.

Symbiosis: Welcome

The main wooden structure for the building is chosen to adapt to its local environment. The modular system is designed to accelerate its construction process. The traditional tenon-and-mortise work will make the observation tower more cost effective and be more integrated as a whole.

Symbiosis: Welcome