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Cross-Laminated Timber Observation Tower Enhancing Ecological Engagement in Wetland Environments

Author:
Ummulkiram Kassamali
Cross-Laminated Timber Observation Tower Enhancing Ecological Engagement in Wetland Environments

Project in-detail

Elevated on triangular steel supports and clad in sustainable wood, the observation tower enhances the area's ecological richness by providing a unique vantage point for wildlife observation in the wetland ecosystem.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with carbon fiber elements, enhancing lightweight strength and visual appeal.
02
Features triangular steel posts that offer both structural support and aesthetic uniqueness.
03
Incorporates cross-ventilation strategies to optimize natural airflow and comfort.
04
Environmentally sensitive design minimizes disruption to local wildlife habitats.
05
Ramps and walkways made from sustainably sourced wood enhance accessibility and user experience.

### Overview

The Vertex observation tower is strategically located within the Al Wathba Wetland, a unique ecological area characterized by its diverse habitats, including salt flats and aquatic environments that support various species, such as flamingos. This project aims to enhance the visitor experience by integrating architectural design with the surrounding landscape, promoting awareness of the wetlands' biodiversity while minimizing ecological impact. The tower serves as a multifunctional facility for both education and recreation, fostering community engagement through wildlife observation and educational programs.

### Spatial Strategy and User Engagement

The design features a distinctive angular geometry that facilitates an open and inviting atmosphere. Key elements include triangular support posts and cross-bracing systems, which provide structural resilience while allowing for unobstructed views from the observation areas. Thoughtfully designed ramps and walkways made from wood enable smooth transitions between elevation levels, ensuring accessibility for all visitors while enhancing interaction with the natural environment. Additionally, the 360-degree observation opportunities are strategically positioned to optimize birdwatching experiences.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The material palette of Vertex prioritizes sustainability and local relevance. Predominantly utilizing wood and steel, the structure combines warmth and strength, reinforcing its connection to the natural setting. Carbon fiber is incorporated in select sections as a lightweight, durable skin that enhances both the aesthetic and functional characteristics of the tower. The design emphasizes environmental considerations, featuring cross-ventilation strategies to reduce dependency on mechanical systems and careful orientation to harness natural sunlight and wind patterns, ultimately cultivating a cooler internal environment and minimizing energy consumption.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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