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Bamboo Lookouts Elevate Eco-Friendly Observation Tower in Wetland Habitat

Authors:
Maria Schmidt, Pascal Rokohl
Bamboo Lookouts Elevate Eco-Friendly Observation Tower in Wetland Habitat

Project in-detail

Elevated bamboo lookouts integrated into the wetlands provide a sustainable vantage point for observing local wildlife while minimizing environmental impact.
5 key facts about this project
01
Made primarily of bamboo, the tower promotes sustainability through the use of a rapidly renewable resource.
02
The structure is elevated to minimize ground disruption and protect the fragile wetland ecosystem.
03
A polygonal design enhances structural integrity while providing diverse viewing angles for wildlife observation.
04
Custom steel joints connect the bamboo sections, ensuring stability while maintaining a lightweight profile.
05
Transparent panels allow natural light into the interior spaces, enhancing visitor experiences without obstructing views.
The Flamingo Observation Tower is a well-conceived architectural design located in the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve. This project integrates functionality with the serene environment of the wetlands, allowing for the observation of wildlife, specifically the Greater Flamingo. The tower aims to provide visitors with a unique vantage point while minimizing environmental impact, ultimately promoting conservation and education about the local ecosystem.

Unique Design Approaches and Materiality

The design approach of the Flamingo Observation Tower employs a polygonal form, contributing to both aesthetic appeal and structural efficiency. This configuration creates an engaging spatial experience as visitors ascend through the structure, with multiple viewing platforms strategically positioned for optimal wildlife observation. The use of bamboo as the primary building material underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability. Bamboo is known for its rapid renewability, strength, and lightweight properties, making it an ideal choice for both structural integrity and minimal ecological impact.

The incorporation of steel joints complements the bamboo construction, ensuring durability and stability, which is critical in a structure exposed to outdoor conditions. The transparent panels integrated into the tower's design facilitate natural light penetration while allowing unobstructed views of the wetlands. This careful selection of materials reflects a balance between aesthetic considerations and environmental responsibility.

Architectural Features and Functionality

The Flamingo Observation Tower features a series of elevated lookouts and passageways designed to enhance the visitor experience. These elements enable seamless movement and provide a range of perspectives on the surrounding wetland and its inhabitants. The unique geometric configuration creates pause points that encourage reflection and engagement with the natural landscape, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the habitat without causing disruption.

The path leading to the observation tower employs similar geometric shapes, reinforcing the connection between the structure and its environment. This design decision aims to create an uninterrupted flow while maintaining ecological sensitivity. As visitors navigate through both the path and the tower, they are invited to explore the rich biodiversity of the area.

The Flamingo Observation Tower stands as an example of thoughtful architectural design that prioritizes ecological preservation while providing educational opportunities for visitors. To further understand the details of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for a comprehensive overview of the architectural ideas and innovative solutions employed throughout the design process.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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