Xiang Architects Unveils Steel Double-Helix Bird-Watching Tower in China

Shanghai-based Xiang Architects has completed the Chenhu Migratory Bird Observation Tower, a 19.8-meter-high steel structure in the Chenhu Wetland bird sanctuary near Wuhan City, China. The tower is designed almost entirely as a double-helix of staircases, which serve as the primary structure, departing from conventional central-core designs. It features 24 staggered viewing platforms, each terminating in a glazed balcony. The staircases are built from 24 standardized prefabricated elements wrapped around a three-meter-wide void, supported by counter-rotated steel braces. The tower is clad entirely in steel, giving it a distinctive appearance that contrasts with the natural landscape. The design aims to create a continuous journey, with the ascent, turning, and overlook forming three perceptual stages. The studio describes the experience as a narrative shaped by movement, where the final panoramic view is the climax. The tower hosts over 100,000 migratory birds each winter. The project was led by principal architect Xiang Nan, with structural design by Zhang Zhun and Xu Yue of AND Office. Steel structure and curtain wall detailing were provided by RoboticPlus.AI. The client is Wuhan Urban Construction Investment Group Co, with cooperation from Wuhan Municipal Engineering Design & Research Institute and Wuhan Yucheng Construction Group Co. Photography is by Chen Hao.