NDSU second-year architecture students are participating in the third annual design and construction competition, “Architecture for the Birds.” The students were asked to design a dwelling specifically for a particular type of bird through interpretation of an award-winning architect's design philosophy. The projects will be featured at the Plains Art Museum in downtown Fargo from March 19 through April 1.
When designing the house for the “client,” which ranged from an a Black-capped Chickadee to an Eastern Screech Owl, the students considered favored environment, dwelling habits, spatial requirements, number of family members, patterns of use and context.
Students also were challenged to integrate the design philosophy of an architect, or architecture team, who has won the international Pritzker design award. This pushed the students to design for their assigned bird in a way they perceive their chosen architect would.
In addition, the birdhouses were required to be fully usable by an actual bird, made of non-toxic materials and able to withstand local weather conditions.
According to Joan Vorderbruggen, assistant professor of architecture, who introduced the project along with architecture associate professor Darryl Booker in 2010, "This project allows students to realize their designs by building an actual dwelling to scale for the user.”
The competition entries include a graphic component with a brief history of the architect and major design influences or philosophies the architect addresses, as well as specific information about the bird and the student's design process.
During the exhibit, the general public will cast votes for "People's Choice for Best Overall Design."
An architect, a craftsman/artist and a bird specialist also will judge the projects. Awards will be given for "Best Translation of the Pritzker Architect's Design Philosophy" and "House Best Suited for Bird Species."