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Biomimetic Design Featuring 3D Printed Concrete and Perforated Facades in a Wetland Visitor Center

Authors:
Abdulmohsen Aloraifan, Homie Chen, Laura De la torre
Biomimetic Design Featuring 3D Printed Concrete and Perforated Facades in a Wetland Visitor Center

Project in-detail

With a focus on biomimetic design, the visitor center utilizes 3D printed concrete and a perforated facade to blend seamlessly into the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve while providing essential education and research facilities for Greater Flamingo conservation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D printed concrete for complex geometries and reduced construction waste.
02
Incorporates a perforated facade to enhance natural ventilation and light filtration.
03
Draws inspiration from biomimicry to reflect the nesting forms of local flamingos.
04
Features an educational gallery designed to foster community engagement with local wildlife.
05
Integrates passive cooling strategies to minimize energy consumption in a desert climate.
The architectural design project "Breeding Ground" is situated within the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, a vital habitat for Greater Flamingos in the Arabian Peninsula. This facility serves as a dedicated space for research, education, and community engagement, simultaneously emphasizing the importance of biodiversity conservation. The project integrates advanced technologies with a thoughtfully considered response to the surrounding environment, showcasing a design that is functional, ecological, and educational.

The primary function of the "Breeding Ground" project revolves around its role as an educational hub and visitor center, offering information on local wildlife and conservation efforts. The building is strategically designed to facilitate various activities, including an information center, a café, exhibition spaces, and training facilities for workshops. These design elements not only cater to visitors but also support the ongoing research initiatives aimed at studying and preserving the flamingo population and its habitat.

One of the distinguishing aspects of this architectural project is its inspiration drawn from the biological forms found in nature. The building's organic shapes resemble eggs, symbolizing the nurturing aspect of the breeding grounds, while also contributing to a visually engaging landscape. This biomimetic approach fosters a harmonious relationship between architecture and its natural surroundings, allowing for a user experience that is both educational and aesthetically pleasing.

The material selection within the design is representative of a commitment to sustainability. The use of 3D printed concrete offers a contemporary method of construction that not only enhances durability but also allows for intricate geometric forms that traditional methods may not achieve. Additionally, glass elements have been incorporated to promote natural daylighting, providing energy efficiency while connecting visitors visually to the wetland environment. Wood is used throughout the interior spaces, adding warmth and tactile quality, while aluminum frames serve structural functions, ensuring thermal efficiency and resilience.

The design addresses environmental challenges through natural cooling strategies, leveraging passive ventilation to create comfortable indoor conditions despite the exterior climate. Perforated facades allow light to filter within, producing dynamic shadow patterns and reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

The project stands out due to its focus on community integration and environmental education, providing a dedicated space for visitors to learn about and engage with the surrounding ecosystem. The design encourages interaction with the habitat it serves, enhancing awareness of the significance of wetland conservation.

To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and overall architectural ideas related to the "Breeding Ground" project, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its elements and objectives.
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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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