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Cantilevered Viewing Platforms Crafted from Natural Timber Embracing the Landscape's Ecology

Author:
Andre Braun
Cantilevered Viewing Platforms Crafted from Natural Timber Embracing the Landscape's Ecology

Project in-detail

Cantilevered observation platforms extend over the wetlands, constructed from natural timber and designed to enhance ecological engagement while providing a vantage point for visitors to experience the diverse wildlife of the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cantilevered platforms enhance wildlife observation while minimizing land disturbance.
02
A bent A-frame design utilizes natural timber to blend seamlessly with the environment.
03
Shading devices mitigate solar gain, optimizing visitor comfort in a hot climate.
04
The structure incorporates a wooden boardwalk, allowing safe access without disrupting ecosystem balance.
05
Informative feature walls provide ecological context for visitors about the wetland's biodiversity.
The Flamingo Observation Tower is an architectural project situated within the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve in Abu Dhabi. It functions primarily as an observation point dedicated to enhancing the visitor experience while promoting awareness of the region's unique wildlife, particularly its flamingo population. The tower represents a synergy between human interaction and natural ecosystems, merging educational opportunities with recreational enjoyment of the wetlands.

Natural elements inform the design, with the structure mimicking the organic forms characteristic of the surrounding landscape. The tower's silhouette reflects the delicate interplay between land and water, creating a landmark that is both visually appealing and contextually relevant. Sustainable practices are evident in the careful choice of materials, which include UV stabilized timber, hardwood timber, stainless steel, and reinforced planted timber. These selections not only emphasize durability and resistance to environmental factors but also enhance the overall aesthetic coherence of the structure in the natural setting.

Design and Structure

The Flamingo Observation Tower incorporates a raised wooden boardwalk that connects the visitor center to the tower itself. This design minimizes ecological disruption while allowing visitors to explore the wetland safely. The boardwalk takes a curvilinear form, directly influenced by the natural topography, further integrating the project within its surroundings. The varying heights of the observation platforms provide multiple vantage points for viewing wildlife, accommodating different visitor needs while minimizing disturbance to the ecosystem.

The inclusion of shaded areas through strategically placed design elements reduces solar gain, contributing to visitor comfort during peak sunlight hours. The design thoughtfully balances functionality and performance, ensuring that the observation experience remains central to the user journey. Each observation platform is constructed with careful consideration of accessibility, including ramps that cater to all visitors.

Unique Design Features

What distinguishes the Flamingo Observation Tower from other similar projects is its responsiveness to both environmental challenges and user needs. The aerodynamic forms and shading devices are designed not only for aesthetic purposes but also to reduce heat absorption, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability. The cantilevered platforms extend over the water, offering intimate observation points that enhance the wildlife viewing experience while minimizing encroachment upon natural habitats.

Additionally, the feature wall serves as both a visual barrier and an informative installation, providing context about the wetland's ecosystem. This integration of educational resources within the architectural framework presents a unique opportunity for visitor engagement and learning. The project exemplifies an architecture that intentionally connects people with their surroundings, facilitating an appreciation for the ecological importance of the wetland reserve.

To gain deeper insights into this architectural project, readers are encouraged to explore elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that detail the innovative approaches and underlying principles that shaped this project.
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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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