ulf mejergren architects unveil their proposal for an iconic observatory combining three sculptural staircases in the internationally recognised pape nature park in latvia. the proposal is a shortlisted entry in the pape bird observation tower competition, the first in a series of architecture competitions organised in collaboration with the WWF.

ulf mejergren architects pape bird observatory lookout loop designboom pape nature park
the exterior of the bird observatory

 

 

the 10-meter wide bird observatory forms a circular shape elevated from the ground and comprises of three curved stair sections which join in a loop, leaving a void in its’ center. ulf mejergren architects have designed these sculptural walkways to widen as they guide bird observers closer to the top, with the upper landing forming the main observation deck.

ulf mejergren architects pape bird observatory lookout loop designboom pape nature park
diagrams outlining the design of the bird observatory

 

 

underneath the stairs and at the space facing the centre, there is room for shelter and rest for ramblers and bird observers alike, to rest and enjoy the scenery of the environment. pape nature park is an internationally-recognised breeding migrating and wintering site for many birds, and is included on the list of ‘important bird areas in europe’. aside from being a functional and repetitive structure, the form aims to create a sculptural and peaceful element in the delicate environment.

ulf mejergren architects pape bird observatory lookout loop designboom pape nature park
the interior space hopes to create a calm environment to observe nature

 

 

the observatory is made out of heartwood from siberian larch, a material with a very high natural resistance against rot. gaps have been purposefully left in between each board for both atmospheric and functional reasons. because of this, light will filter and create a permeable atmosphere as well as dry the wood from any dampness or rain. an additional siding of wood finishes the floor both on the inside and on the outside to give the platform a solidity. the foundation consists of wooden poles that are driven down in the soil, the same method as for the footbridge, and interlocked with a treated wooden truss-system.

ulf mejergren architects pape bird observatory lookout loop designboom pape nature park
the structure combines three sculptural staircases

 

 

the competition is the first in a series organised with “pasaules dabas fonds”, the official WWF associate partner in latvia. participants are tasked with creating designs for a new bird observation tower to replace the previous one that was struck by lightning and burnt down.

ulf mejergren architects pape bird observatory lookout loop designboom pape nature park
the observatory is a shortlisted entry in a competition organised with the official WWF partner in latvia

 

 

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

 

edited by: kieron marchese | designboom