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Circular Observation Tower with Rope Facade and Wood Walkways

Author:
Jose antonio Muñoz gomez
Circular Observation Tower with Rope Facade and Wood Walkways

Project in-detail

Constructed with a circular form and a unique facade of ropes, the observation tower enhances the visitor experience in the Al Wathba Waterland Reserve by providing panoramic views of its diverse ecosystem.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular design enables 360-degree views of the landscape.
02
Boat ropes provide a unique sun-shading facade.
03
Wooden walkways create connectivity throughout the reserve.
04
Integration of resting points supports local bird species.
05
Multiple observation zones enhance visitor engagement.

Set within the Al Wathba Waterland Reserve, Al Wathba Towers fosters interaction with the surrounding landscape. The design includes a bird observation tower that provides a viewpoint for visitors while encouraging an engagement with the diverse flora and fauna. The concept focuses on creating an experience centered around observation and exploration, allowing visitors to connect with the environment.

Materials and Structure

The structure combines steel, wood, and strings, which contribute to its durability and cost-effectiveness. The circular shape of the observation tower enables expansive views of the reservation, which enhances the visitor's connection to the ecosystem. The exterior is covered with a skin made of boat ropes. This material choice allows for moderated light and ventilation inside the tower, fostering a comfortable atmosphere for birdwatching.

Visitor Experience

An important part of the design is the wooden walkway leading to the observation tower. This pathway helps visitors navigate the reserve while establishing a connection with nature. As they walk along, they encounter different heights and shapes that encourage exploration. The design creates a multi-sensory experience, inviting individuals to appreciate their surroundings.

Environment Integration

Connectivity is a key theme in the project, illustrated by additional structures such as suspension bridges and zip lines. These features facilitate exploration and provide more opportunities for viewing the landscape. Resting points along the pathways are included to support local bird species, enhancing the ecological experience for visitors.

The design establishes a calming environment where light and shadow play within the observation area. This creates a space that invites contemplation and helps visitors feel closer to nature. The overall approach reflects an understanding of the landscape and offers enriching experiences within the Al Wathba Waterland Reserve.

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

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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

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