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Charred Wood Shingles and Transparent Forms Creating a Sustainable Oasis Experience

Authors:
Pablo Arregui, Konstantinos Pagkalos
Charred Wood Shingles and Transparent Forms Creating a Sustainable Oasis Experience

Project in-detail

With its intricate use of charred wood shingles and expansive glass facades that blur the lines between interior and exterior, the design creates a serene environmental experience while serving as a community hub for education and engagement within the vibrant Al Wathba Wetland Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wood shingles to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal while promoting fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, allowing for quicker construction and reduced environmental impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, providing structural stability while maximizing natural light and views of the wetlands.
04
Integrates landscape elements directly within the design, encouraging biodiversity and a connection with the local ecosystem.
05
Serves as an educational space, designed to inform visitors about the ecological importance of the surrounding wetland environment.
The Wrapped Oasis is an innovative architectural project situated in the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, United Arab Emirates. This design embodies a thoughtful integration of the built environment with the natural landscape, creating a structure that is both functional and harmoniously aligned with its surroundings. The project represents a nuanced interpretation of the oasis concept, merging aesthetic appeal with ecological awareness.

The architecture surrounding the Wrapped Oasis is primarily focused on enhancing the visitor experience while promoting education about the local ecosystem. The design consists of various essential components, such as a reception area, display areas, an amphitheater, and training rooms aimed at fostering community engagement. Additionally, the incorporation of a café and gift shop provides essential amenities for visitors, enhancing their connection with the wetland environment. The design encourages outdoor engagement through carefully landscaped gardens and a central pond that extends the interior space into the tranquil atmosphere of the wetlands.

Key features of the Wrapped Oasis include its unique form and material choices, which are crucial in establishing an appropriate relationship with the local climate and geography. The flowing shapes of the structure resemble the natural lines found in the desert landscape, creating a visual connection between architecture and nature. The use of concrete ensures structural integrity while allowing for expansive, open spaces that invite natural light. Wood elements inside the structure infuse warmth and provide a tactile experience, while extensive use of glass serves to create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments.

In terms of design approaches, the Wrapped Oasis employs several innovative strategies that set it apart from conventional architectural practices. The passive design techniques implemented throughout the project enhance energy efficiency and maintain comfortable interior climates in the often harsh environment of the UAE. By utilizing local materials and emphasizing sustainable construction practices, the project reduces its ecological footprint, ensuring a minimal impact on the surrounding habitat.

Furthermore, the structure's layout is indicative of a thoughtful spatial organization. Visitors begin their journey through a designed pathway, leading them into a series of interconnected spaces that encourage discovery and reflection. The inclusion of educational areas aims to deepen visitors' understanding of the importance of wetlands, fostering a sense of stewardship for the environment.

The Wrapped Oasis stands as an example of how contemporary architecture can engage meaningfully with the landscape while serving vital educational and social roles within the community. Its unique design philosophy focuses on respecting the environment and creating spaces that foster a deep connection between people and nature. For those interested in exploring this architectural achievement further, a review of the project’s architectural plans, sections, and design concepts will provide an invaluable understanding of its significance and execution. Readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the architectural ideas and insights that define the Wrapped Oasis and appreciate the balance this project achieves between ecological awareness and architectural expression.
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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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