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Bamboo Shell Structure Embracing Natural Views with Integrated Solar Canopy

Authors:
Elizaveta Ermakova, Tatyana Serdyukova, Anton Kalinkin
Bamboo Shell Structure Embracing Natural Views with Integrated Solar Canopy

Project in-detail

A bamboo shell structure integrates solar panels and an amphitheater while providing expansive views of the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, serving as a visitor center dedicated to education and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Bamboo is used as a primary structural material for its lightweight and sustainable properties.
02
An amphitheater is integrated into the design, enhancing visitor interaction with the landscape.
03
Solar panels are positioned for optimal energy capture throughout the day.
04
The building's shape mimics the movement of bird wings, promoting a connection to nature.
05
Transparent glass enclosures maximize natural light and views of the wetland reserve.

Harmony is located near the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve and designed to serve both educational and recreational purposes for visitors. The design draws inspiration from the movement of a bird's wing, which conveys concepts of grace and lightness. By using this form, the building connects to its natural surroundings while emphasizing sustainability and respect for the environment.

Design Integration

The concept of Harmony is heavily dependent on advanced design techniques applied through Grasshopper software. This allows for precise control of geometric shapes, resulting in a structure that reflects the beauty of nature. Each curve and point is crafted using mathematical algorithms, which creates a design that responds well to its environment while bringing a modern touch.

Functional Elements

A notable feature of Harmony is an amphitheater area that offers visitors stunning views of the wetland reserve. This space encourages visitors to connect with the natural landscape, promoting community interaction and appreciation for the outdoors. The layout enhances movement and accessibility, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their time at the site.

Solar Panel Integration

Sustainability is a key aspect of Harmony, illustrated by the strategic placement of solar panels throughout the structure. These panels are designed to capture as much sunlight as possible. A computer system optimizes their arrangement, making real-time adjustments based on the sun's movement. This thoughtful approach highlights the commitment to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Materiality and Structure

The building's strength comes from the use of bamboo stems, offering a lightweight yet sturdy framework. Choosing bamboo reflects a dedication to sustainable materials while ensuring the structure remains solid. The bamboo creates a self-supporting shell, complemented by thin glass that allows natural light to flood the interior spaces. Glued wood adds warmth and texture, making the environment welcoming for visitors.

The arrangement of solar panels mimics the patterns found in bird feathers. This design choice serves both a practical purpose and an aesthetic one, showing a clear intention to blend the architecture with its natural context.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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