NDSU second-year architecture students are participating in the design and construction competition “Architecture for the Birds.”

The students designed a dwelling specifically for a particular type of bird through interpretation of an award-winning architect’s design philosophy.

The 48 birdhouse projects will be featured at the Plains Art Museum in downtown Fargo from March 7 through March 13. The general public can cast votes for “People’s Choice for Best Overall Design.”

When designing the house for the “client,” the students considered the bird’s favored environment, immediate nesting habitat, size, number of family members and patterns of use – all issues similar to designing a dwelling for human use.

“We’re introducing a lot of concepts to the students,” said Joan Vorderbruggen, assistant professor of architecture. “This project addresses issues related to sustainable design and the consideration of the larger environment we inhabit.”

The birdhouses were required to be fully usable by the bird, made of nontoxic materials and able to withstand local weather conditions.

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 bird in a way they perceive their chosen architect would, Vorderbruggen said.

A jury composed of bird experts from Audubon Dakota, an architect and a local craftsman/artist will award “Best Translation of the Pritzker Architect’s Design Philosophy” and “House Best Suited for Bird Species.”

For more information on the exhibition, visit http://plainsart.org/exhibits/the-birdhouse-project-3/.

NDSU is recognized as one of the nation's top 108 public and private universities by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education.