Roof Tile That Doubles As Birdhouse, Like Killing Two Birds With One Stone?

Architizer News

Roof Tile That Doubles As Birdhouse, Like Killing Two Birds With One Stone?

January 4, 2013

The answer to that headline: yes, only without the unnecessary death. Klaas Kuiken‘s charming little invention covers the roof of your house while also providing shelter for tiny winged creatures, tired from a long day of foraging, feeding, and whatever else it is birds do. The design consists of a small gabled “structure” fastened to the top surface of a clay tile, itself secured to adjacent tiles with special glue capable of withstanding extreme temperatures. Seen in section, the lilliputian unit is rather spacious, making this a dream abode for any bachelor bird. Continue.

All images: Klaas Kuiken

The shaft of the house continues past the underside of the tile, creating a small extruded gap—or “basket” as Kuiken calls it—that can be used as storage space for nesting materials. A wooden screen at the base of the basket keeps the birds from falling through the ceiling.

The project was a way of (re-)introducing birds into urban areas, where numbers of bird populations have steadily dwindled. Kuiken consulted with the Dutch Bird Association about the design of his birdhouse, which he hopes can find widespread application among urban and semi-urban homeowners. He recently just complete production of 100 units, which can be ordered via email.

For more architecture for animals, see our list of our top pet projects.