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Bamboo Structure Overlooking Green Wetlands with Hempcrete Foundation

Authors:
Phurin Jungteerapanich, Phatchanon Varanukulsak, Panas Saengvanich, Kittimont Kookasemkij
Bamboo Structure Overlooking Green Wetlands with Hempcrete Foundation

Project in-detail

The integration of a bamboo structure and hempcrete foundation creates a sustainable observatory that enhances ecological awareness while serving as an educational space for engaging with the Al Wathba Wetland ecosystem.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a central botanical pond that serves both ecological and educational purposes.
02
Gaps in the structure facilitate local wildlife nesting, enhancing biodiversity.
03
The use of hempcrete allows for a lightweight and sustainable foundation.
04
Observation points are strategically placed to minimize disturbance to wildlife.
05
Rattan handrails are utilized to create a natural aesthetic that blends with the surroundings.

Cumulative Phenomenon, situated within the unique ecological context of Al Wathba, showcases a design that emphasizes interaction and education. The structure has two primary functions: during the open season, it serves as an observatory, allowing visitors to engage with the wetlands, while in the closed season, it transforms into a monument that focuses on environmental regeneration. The overall concept encourages a close relationship between people and nature.

Functionality and Seasonal Adaptability

The design adapts to seasonal variations effectively. In spring and summer, the structure invites people in to explore and learn about the local ecosystem, promoting awareness of the region’s biodiversity. Once the closed season begins, the emphasis shifts from visitor engagement to allowing the environment to recover, showcasing the importance of adaptive design that respects natural cycles.

Pathways and Interaction with Ecosystem

Visitors follow an intricate network of pathways that guide them through different landscape experiences. These paths vary in incline and shape, enhancing the overall journey while ensuring accessibility for all. The trails lead to essential features like a botanical pond, which acts as both an educational tool and an area of visual interest. Elevated viewpoints throughout the design offer unobtrusive vantage points for observing wildlife, helping people connect with the surroundings without disturbing them.

Material Choices and Structural Elements

The foundation is made using hempcrete, a material recognized for its sustainability and lightness, which provides structural stability. Handrails crafted from rattan contribute to a natural feel, blending well with the environment. The main support structure is built from bamboo, chosen for its strength and rapid growth. This careful selection of materials highlights the commitment to environmentally friendly practices and local resource utilization throughout the design.

Biodiversity and Environmental Integration

The design places a strong emphasis on supporting local biodiversity. Gaps within the structure are intentional, allowing birds and other creatures to nest, thus enhancing the ecological habitat. The central botanical pond offers a space for observing the interactions between different species and plant life. Additionally, the microclimate created by the water vapor rising from the pond contributes to improved comfort and promotes the growth of various plants.

The experience is further enriched by shaded areas that blend into the landscape, providing relief from the sun while respecting the environment. Each aspect of the design demonstrates an understanding of how architecture can enhance connections with the natural world and serve the community's educational needs effectively.

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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

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