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Crystalline Evaporation Structures Crafted From Steel and Natural Wood in a Wetland Ecosystem

Authors:
Guanghui Lu, Xuewen Ping, Xu Zhang, Xiangquan Yang
Crystalline Evaporation Structures Crafted From Steel and Natural Wood in a Wetland Ecosystem

Project in-detail

Utilizing a unique combination of crystalline forms and a steel structure, this design harmonizes with the Al Wathba Wetland ecosystem to facilitate education and observation of its rich biodiversity.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates crystalline structures to facilitate evaporation processes, creating snow-like formations.
02
Eco-friendly materials include cotton and mesh, enhancing filtration and environmental sensitivity.
03
The structure features ramps for accessibility, integrating natural topography with modern design elements.
04
Canopy features provide shade while promoting biodiversity by supporting native flora beneath the building.
05
An elevated footprint minimizes disruption to existing wetland ecology, allowing wildlife to thrive undisturbed.
This architectural project focuses on the Al Wathba Wetland, located in the United Arab Emirates, and aims to highlight its ecological significance while fostering a deeper understanding of its biodiversity. The design embodies a commitment to integrating architecture with the natural landscape, creating a space that encourages both exploration and learning about the unique habitat.

The project serves several essential functions, including education, research, and observation. By incorporating viewing platforms and interactive spaces, it creates opportunities for visitors to engage with the wetland environment while gaining insights into the species that inhabit it. The architectural approach emphasizes accessibility and invites guests to immerse themselves in the diverse natural world surrounding them.

One of the standout features of this design is its extensive species layout visualization, which categorizes and presents the wide array of wildlife, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and aquatic plants native to the wetland. This thorough categorization not only serves as an informative element but also underscores the interconnectedness of various species within this unique ecosystem.

Moreover, the project includes an innovative evaporation experiment designed to mimic snow in a desert climate. This experimental design reflects the adaptability of architecture in arid regions, exploring how built structures can contribute to environmental processes. The experiment involves a series of structures that facilitate brine evaporation, which in turn creates crystalline formations that resemble snow. This approach challenges traditional design concepts by engaging with local climatic conditions and developing solutions that showcase both functionality and aesthetics.

Architecturally, the project features a distinctive tower structure that facilitates human interaction with nature. This design does not adhere to conventional vertical principles but instead manifests as a linear, flowing form that harmonizes with the landscape. With gradual ramps guiding visitors upwards, the experience becomes less about climbing and more about a gentle transition through the environment, merging architecture with the natural topography of the wetland.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the project’s design philosophy. The use of steel provides the necessary structural integrity while allowing for a modern aesthetic. Complementing this, cotton and mesh materials serve functional purposes in the evaporation process, supporting the project's environmental experimentation. Wood is integrated into several design elements, such as walkways, providing a tactile connection to nature. Concrete forms the base of the structures, offering stability and durability against the region's environmental challenges.

A noteworthy aspect of the project is its landscape integration. The building is designed to be elevated, minimizing disruption to the native flora and fauna. This hovering effect enhances the visual experience for visitors and allows wildlife to move freely beneath and around the structure. Features such as “tree hoods” and hydroponic platforms highlight the intentional integration of the architecture with the landscape, encouraging biodiversity while facilitating human observation.

The Al Wathba Wetland project represents a thoughtful synthesis of architectural design and ecological awareness. It emphasizes sustainable practices and innovative design approaches that not only honor the existing environment but actively enhance it. This architectural endeavor provides a unique perspective on the role of architecture in promoting environmental stewardship and public engagement. By exploring the project presentation, readers can delve into the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the ideas and creativity that underpin this intelligent and context-responsive project.
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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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