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Creating Natural Connections Through Pressure-Treated Wood and Stainless Steel

Authors:
Franco Chan, Anne Mezgec, Heather Money, Olivia Kuznyetsova
Creating Natural Connections Through Pressure-Treated Wood and Stainless Steel

Project in-detail

Utilizing pressure-treated wood and stainless steel, the design enhances accessibility and invites exploration of the restored wetland, creating a functional space that fosters biodiversity and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes pressure-treated wood for durability in a wetland environment Incorporates truss support systems referencing local industrial history Features a panoramic top floor for expansive views of the landscape Prioritizes the preservation of existing vegetation during construction Designed to enhance accessibility for all visitors, including wheelchair users.

The Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is a designed space that highlights the relationship between humans and nature. Located in a restored area that once served as a wastewater management facility, it now supports various bird and plant species. The design encourages visitors to explore the landscape, focusing on providing an enriching experience while protecting the delicate ecosystem around them. It seeks to draw attention to the beauty of the wetlands, fostering a deeper appreciation for this unique environment.

Design Integration

The layout of the reserve emphasizes an open concept that makes the most of the natural surroundings. One of the main features is the top floor, which gives clear, wide views of the landscape. This space allows visitors to observe and connect with the environment from an elevated position. The main floor is designed for accessibility, welcoming everyone and promoting ease of movement throughout the area.

Biodiversity and Preservation

A central goal is to support the rich plant and animal life in the wetlands. The design plan includes efforts to keep as much existing vegetation as possible. When areas are disturbed, there are plans to replant using native species. This thoughtful approach aims to lessen any negative effects from construction, helping to maintain the ecological balance of the reserve.

Architectural Aesthetics

The structure uses industrial design features, such as exposed truss support systems, which reflect the local history of metalworking. These industrial elements are balanced with wooden handrails that link the built environment to the surrounding nature. The careful combination of these materials enhances the overall look while fulfilling practical needs, making the space both inviting and functional.

Circulation and Experience

The main boardwalk acts as a key pathway, guiding visitors through the reserve. Its gentle curves invite exploration and interaction with the natural landscape. Each step taken on the boardwalk encourages a connection with the environment, making the journey feel both engaging and meaningful.

The vertical spindles on the railings are made from stainless steel, offering safety without overpowering the design. Their clean lines contribute to a sense of clarity within the space, allowing visitors to feel at ease as they navigate their surroundings.

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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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