Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

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

Cotton Evaporation Structures and Elevated Walkways in Biomimetic Wetland Design

Authors:
Guanghui Lu, Xuewen Ping, Xu Zhang, Xiangquan Yang
Cotton Evaporation Structures and Elevated Walkways in Biomimetic Wetland Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing cotton evaporation techniques and elevated walkways, the wetland design enhances biodiversity while providing educational spaces for community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cotton evaporation techniques to simulate snow-like effects in arid conditions.
02
Incorporates sustainable wood sourced from local forests, reducing transportation impact.
03
Features elevated walkways designed to minimize disruption to local wildlife habitats.
04
Integrates educational platforms for community engagement and birdwatching experiences.
05
Employs a bent A-frame structure to enhance resilience against environmental elements.
The Al Wathba Wetland project serves as an architectural initiative designed to enhance the ecological and aesthetic value of wetland areas in the United Arab Emirates. This project embodies a commitment to environmental sustainability, education, and community engagement while respecting the delicate balance of the local ecosystem. Incorporating elements that promote biodiversity, the design focuses on creating an immersive experience for visitors.

Observation and Interaction
The primary feature of the project is the observation tower, strategically positioned to offer views across the wetland. This structure is designed not only for aesthetic appeal but also to foster interaction between the environment and its visitors. Elevated walkways extend throughout the area, allowing users to traverse without disturbing the habitats of local wildlife. These paths are crafted for accessibility, ensuring they can serve diverse audiences.

The incorporation of viewing platforms allows for comprehensive observation of both flora and fauna. These platforms provide essential vantage points for birdwatching and nature appreciation, emphasizing the project's educational components. By prioritizing visitor experience, the design encourages a deeper understanding of wetland ecosystems and their significance.

Sustainable Materials and Design Strategies
What distinguishes the Al Wathba Wetland project from others is its emphasis on sustainable material use and innovative design strategies. The primary materials include sustainably sourced wood, durable metal, and cotton. Wood serves as the main structural component, imbuing the design with a natural quality while ensuring that it withstands the rigors of the desert climate. Metal components are incorporated for strength and durability, addressing the demands of environmental exposure. Cotton string is creatively used for experiential elements related to evaporation experiments, reinforcing the educational theme.

The design approach reflects a generous application of ecological principles, demonstrating water management practices pertinent to arid environments. The project illustrates how wetlands can be improved to provide ecosystem services such as water purification and biodiversity support. Focused attention to preservation and engagement makes this project a model for future initiatives in similar ecological contexts.

Educational Outreach and Community Engagement
The Al Wathba Wetland project is not merely a space for observation; it places significant importance on educational outreach. Informative displays and interpretive signage will guide visitors, enriching their understanding of the ecological balance and the role of wetlands in environmental health. The design encourages community involvement, positioning the wetland area as a resource for local education initiatives that foster appreciation for nature.

Through this integration of architecture and ecology, the project enhances local biodiversity while educating visitors about sustainable practices. To gain further insights into the innovative architectural ideas, designs, and overall planning involved in this project, interested parties are encouraged to explore the project presentation, including architectural plans and sections that lay out the thoughtful design choices made throughout.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
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 17,249 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