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Biodiversity Academy Featuring High Thermal Mass Clay Panels and Glulam Structure

Authors:
Tommaso Ferrari, Diego Perusko, Cristian Torreggiani
Biodiversity Academy Featuring High Thermal Mass Clay Panels and Glulam Structure

Project in-detail

Constructed with high thermal mass clay panels and glulam, the center serves as a key educational facility and observation point dedicated to the conservation of the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve's biodiversity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with high thermal mass clay panels to enhance energy efficiency.
02
Utilizes glulam timber for structural elements, reducing long-term maintenance.
03
Incorporates educational displays in the Biodiversity Academy for interactive learning.
04
Features multiple observation points designed to immerse visitors in the natural landscape.
05
Integrates pathways that guide visitors through the center and directly connect to the wetlands.

The Al Wathba Nature Visitors Center is located in the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve and serves as a place for education and awareness about the reserve's unique biodiversity. The design aims to create a respectful relationship with the surrounding environment. By prioritizing nature in its concept, the center invites visitors to understand and appreciate the landscape.

Architecture and Experience

The design allows for an engaging visitor experience through a series of interconnected spaces. These areas include the Al Wathba House, Display Areas, and Meeting Rooms, all positioned to provide clear views of the wetlands. Paths lead visitors through the building and outside, helping them feel a continuous connection with nature. Each space encourages exploration and learning, making the environment part of the overall journey.

Sustainability and Materials

Sustainability is a central focus of the design, reflected in the materials and construction techniques used. Glulam, a type of laminated wood, is employed for horizontal structural components. This material is treated to ensure it requires less maintenance over time. High thermal mass clay panels are used for the primary casing of the center, enhancing energy efficiency. These material choices support the environmental goals of the center while ensuring long-lasting performance.

Educational Focus

The Biodiversity Academy on the first floor is an essential component of the center's mission. This area is designed to engage visitors through interactive displays that highlight the local ecosystems. It aims to foster a deeper understanding of conservation efforts. By providing educational resources, the academy enhances the overall experience and promotes awareness of the region's rich biodiversity.

Design Details

Throughout the center, paths and visual lines create opportunities for interaction with the surrounding landscape. The spaces are organized to guide visitors along a journey of discovery. Shaded terraces and observation points are integrated into the design, allowing for moments of reflection. These areas enhance the connection to the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, encouraging visitors to engage with the natural world around them.

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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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