Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Timber Canopy and Recycled Wood Pathways Creating An Immersive Wetland Experience

Author:
Francois Nour
Charred Timber Canopy and Recycled Wood Pathways Creating An Immersive Wetland Experience

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred timber and recycled wood, this multifunctional space offers elevated pathways for visitors to engage with the diverse ecosystem of the wetlands while promoting environmental education and awareness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with 100% recycled wood from responsibly managed sources.
02
Features a composite canopy designed to mimic local organic forms.
03
Elevated boardwalks minimize ecological disruption while enhancing accessibility.
04
Incorporates interpretive educational tools embedded within the structure.
05
Connects diverse ecological zones within the wetlands for immersive exploration.

The project, known as TA’YER, is situated in the Al-Wathbah Wetlands. This architectural design emphasizes a harmonious relationship between built environments and natural ecosystems. TA’YER serves as a multifunctional space, designed for visitors to interact with and learn about the unique ecological attributes of the wetlands.

The primary function of TA’YER is to facilitate engagement with the surrounding natural habitat, providing both educational and leisure experiences. The design embodies principles of sustainability, integrating human infrastructure with the wetland’s ecosystem. Architectural elements are carefully considered to minimize ecological disruption while promoting environmental awareness.

Sustainable Material Use and Architectural Integration
One of the defining characteristics of TA’YER is its innovative use of materials and design. The structure employs a double structural system using steel frameworks that enhance stability. Additionally, it utilizes 100% recycled wood for raised platforms and walkways, sourced from responsibly managed locations. This approach not only reduces waste but also demonstrates a commitment to sustainability.

The canopy of TA’YER is constructed from advanced composite materials that mimic organic forms found in nature. This element serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, providing shelter while blending seamlessly into the landscape. The design features undulating forms reminiscent of the natural topography, facilitating an immersive experience within the environment.

Engagement with the Landscape
TA’YER includes a network of elevated boardwalks designed for accessibility and to minimize human impact on the wetland floor. These pathways encourage exploration and interaction with various ecological zones, allowing visitors to observe wildlife and plant life up close. Vertical circulation systems, such as the winding staircases, enhance connectivity, leading to different vantage points that highlight the beauty of the wetlands.

The overall design promotes educational opportunities, incorporating interpretive elements that inform visitors about the ecological significance of the area. This focus on education and environmental stewardship sets TA’YER apart from standard architectural projects, as it actively engages the public in meaningful dialogue about sustainability.

To gain a deeper understanding of the architectural designs, plans, and sections of TA’YER, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. Detailed insights into the architectural ideas and functional elements can provide a more comprehensive view of this thoughtful integration of architecture and nature.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy