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Branching Layout With Reed Panels Enhancing Wildlife Observation In A Sustainable Visitor Center

Authors:
Omar Al-hassawi, Hala Barakat
Branching Layout With Reed Panels Enhancing Wildlife Observation In A Sustainable Visitor Center

Project in-detail

The integration of a branching layout with reed panels creates a seamless connection to the surrounding wetlands, offering an immersive experience for visitors while serving as a center for environmental education and wildlife observation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The visitor center's design mimics the form of indigenous Ghaf trees, enhancing environmental integration.
02
Rammed earth walls provide thermal mass, improving energy efficiency in a hot climate.
03
Large glass openings facilitate 360-degree views of the wetlands, promoting wildlife observation.
04
Reed panel elements enhance ventilation while providing shade and privacy.
05
Interactive exhibits engage visitors with the ecological significance of the wetland habitat.
The Al Wathba Wetland Reserve Flamingo Visitor Center is an architectural project located in the United Arab Emirates, designed to foster environmental education and promote awareness of the unique wetland ecosystem. This facility serves as a hub for visitors and researchers alike, facilitating an understanding of local wildlife, especially the diverse population of flamingos residing in the reserve. The center is characterized by its thoughtful integration with the surrounding environment, showcasing sustainability and functionality in its design.

The visitor center incorporates several key functional areas including an information center, a café, exhibition spaces, and rooms for educational workshops. The building layout is designed to facilitate smooth circulation, allowing visitors to seamlessly transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This spatial organization enhances the overall visitor experience, encouraging interaction with natural elements and providing several viewpoints for observing wildlife.

The project distinguishes itself from others in the following ways:

Natural Integration: A key design principle is its deep integration with the natural environment. The center's structure is inspired by the form of indigenous Ghaf trees, utilizing a branching layout that promotes airflow and provides shade. This connection to nature informs both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the design.

Sustainable Material Choices: The building utilizes a combination of local materials, including reed panels, timber, glass, and rammed earth. These materials were selected not only for their environmental credentials but also for their ability to enhance the thermal efficiency of the building while ensuring durability. The façade relies on reed panels that encourage airflow while offering privacy and shade to the interior spaces.

Interactive Environmental Education: The visitor center serves as an educational platform, featuring interactive displays and exhibition areas that inform visitors about the ecological importance of wetlands. This design focus highlights the project's role in environmental stewardship, encouraging a deeper appreciation of wildlife and local habitats.

Architectural Expression: The use of large glass openings enhances visibility and light penetration, blurring the line between internal and external environments. This architectural feature encourages a direct engagement with the landscape while providing optimal daylighting for interior spaces.

The Al Wathba Wetland Reserve Flamingo Visitor Center represents a thoughtful approach to architecture that balances functionality with ecological sensitivity. To gain further insights into the project’s architectural principles, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural designs, the presentation provides detailed documentation of the design process and outcomes. Exploring these elements can offer a comprehensive understanding of the innovative ideas that shaped this visitor center’s creation.
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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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