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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Define a Landscape-Conscious Visitor Center

Author:
Yasmeen Jumah
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Define a Landscape-Conscious Visitor Center

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and an extensive green roof, the design seamlessly integrates ecological principles with functional spaces to serve as an educational visitor center focused on flamingo conservation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates an extensive green roof for stormwater management and insulation.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure that maximizes natural light and views.
05
Includes a dedicated community garden to promote environmental education and engagement.
The Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center is a carefully designed architectural project that emphasizes a symbiotic relationship between built environments and natural ecosystems. Located in Abu Dhabi, the center serves as a hub for conservation education, offering visitors an immersive experience that highlights the significance of flamingos and their habitats. The building is both sustainable and functional, embodying principles of ecology within its architectural framework.

The project represents an innovative approach to architecture by integrating green design elements that respect and enhance the local environment. The design features a layout that mimics the structure of bird wings, fostering a dynamic interaction between internal and external spaces. The architectural configuration is purposefully arranged to facilitate movement and accessibility, allowing visitors to engage with nature seamlessly.

Unique Architectural Approaches

One distinguishing aspect of the Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center is its emphasis on sustainability, reflected in its choice of materials and design strategies. The building uses reinforced concrete for stability, alongside locally sourced and recycled materials, reducing its ecological footprint. Green roof systems provide insulation and manage stormwater, while extensive glazing enhances natural light throughout the interior, blurring the lines between inside and outside environments.

The visitor center also incorporates biophilic design principles through its internal and external gardens, offering spaces for education and interaction with native flora. The layout includes various observation points that allow for unobtrusive viewing of flamingos, crucial for maintaining their habitat. These innovative design choices not only improve visitor engagement but also reinforce the center’s role as an educational facility focused on conservation.

Functional Spaces and Layout

The interior of the Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center is structured to support various functions essential for visitor engagement. Key areas include exhibition zones that showcase the natural history of flamingos, a community garden for hands-on learning, and dedicated bird-watching balconies that minimize disruption to wildlife. The architectural sections reveal a thoughtful arrangement aimed at enhancing visitor experiences while promoting awareness of environmental conservation.

The plaza serves as a gathering space, connecting distinct areas of the center and facilitating social interaction among visitors. Each design element has been purposefully integrated to serve educational purposes, allowing the center to function effectively as both a visitor center and a community resource.

The architectural designs manifest a commitment to ecological awareness and education, positioning the Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center as a leading model for similar projects. To explore the intricate details of architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, interested parties are encouraged to review the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its innovative approach.
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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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