Add To Collection
Add to Collection
TIJ
TIJ
Stellendam, Netherlands
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
TIJ
Stellendam, Netherlands
Firm
Type
STATUS
Built
YEAR
2019
SIZE
0 sqft - 1000 sqft
TIJ is the largest and most distinctive “nature artwork” in the Haringvliet delta, developed as part of the Droomfonds project — a collaboration between nature organizations aimed at strengthening the ecological value of the Haringvliet while making these changes accessible to the public.
The observatory is located in the Scheelhoek nature reserve near the Haringvlietdam (Stellendam), a dynamic landscape of dikes, reed fields, and offshore islands. These islands function as breeding and feeding grounds for bird species such as common terns and the Sandwich tern, the ecological icon of the area.
Conceived as “The Nest,” the structure is an egg-shaped, fully demountable timber construction, clad with locally harvested reeds. The project is designed according to circular principles: all components are modular, reversible, and reusable, allowing the building to be disassembled without loss of material value. This approach minimizes environmental impact and aligns with the temporary nature of the intervention.
The structure was digitally fabricated using a file-to-factory process. Approximately 400 unique timber elements were CNC-cut in Finland, transported by boat, and assembled on site. The load-bearing system is based on a Zollinger structure, enabling large spans with relatively small components.
Material differentiation responds to environmental conditions: the lower section, exposed to periodic flooding, is constructed from Accoya wood, while the upper structure is made of pine. The reed cladding, sourced from the site itself, stops just above the maximum high-water level. A hybrid timber-concrete floor provides access to the interior viewing space.
The project integrates architecture and landscape. A masterplan by HNS Landscape Architects structures the visitor experience, guiding movement through newly created bird habitats. The final approach to the observatory is via a concealed tunnel made from reclaimed sheet piles and covered with sand, allowing visitors to reach the observatory without disturbing wildlife.
TIJ combines parametric design, circular construction, and landscape integration to create a minimal-impact intervention that enhances both ecological awareness and visitor experience within the delta environment.
The observatory is located in the Scheelhoek nature reserve near the Haringvlietdam (Stellendam), a dynamic landscape of dikes, reed fields, and offshore islands. These islands function as breeding and feeding grounds for bird species such as common terns and the Sandwich tern, the ecological icon of the area.
Conceived as “The Nest,” the structure is an egg-shaped, fully demountable timber construction, clad with locally harvested reeds. The project is designed according to circular principles: all components are modular, reversible, and reusable, allowing the building to be disassembled without loss of material value. This approach minimizes environmental impact and aligns with the temporary nature of the intervention.
The structure was digitally fabricated using a file-to-factory process. Approximately 400 unique timber elements were CNC-cut in Finland, transported by boat, and assembled on site. The load-bearing system is based on a Zollinger structure, enabling large spans with relatively small components.
Material differentiation responds to environmental conditions: the lower section, exposed to periodic flooding, is constructed from Accoya wood, while the upper structure is made of pine. The reed cladding, sourced from the site itself, stops just above the maximum high-water level. A hybrid timber-concrete floor provides access to the interior viewing space.
The project integrates architecture and landscape. A masterplan by HNS Landscape Architects structures the visitor experience, guiding movement through newly created bird habitats. The final approach to the observatory is via a concealed tunnel made from reclaimed sheet piles and covered with sand, allowing visitors to reach the observatory without disturbing wildlife.
TIJ combines parametric design, circular construction, and landscape integration to create a minimal-impact intervention that enhances both ecological awareness and visitor experience within the delta environment.
Product Spec Sheet
Were your products used?
Join as a manufacturer to add your products.