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Curved Viewing Deck with Photochromic Material in an Ecological Setting

Authors:
Bassel Omara, Haridas Narvekar, Ixara valerie Tapales, Ahmed Aglan
Curved Viewing Deck with Photochromic Material in an Ecological Setting

Project in-detail

A long, curved viewing deck crafted from photochromic material provides dynamic solar shading while offering expansive views of the wetlands, serving as an educational center focused on the conservation of local wildlife, particularly flamingos.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved outdoor viewing deck mimics the neck of a flamingo.
02
Photochromic material adapts its color for dynamic visual effects.
03
Strategic placement minimizes disruption to the flamingo habitat.
04
Spacious 360-degree observation platform enhances wildlife viewing.
05
Built using sustainable practices, including precast components.

The Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center is located within the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, designed to educate visitors about the local wildlife, with a particular focus on flamingos. The building integrates well with the landscape and aims to inspire appreciation for the region's ecology. The overall design reflects the beauty and grace of these birds, while facilitating a connection between people and nature.

Architectural Form
The design takes cues from the forms of flamingos, featuring smooth, flowing lines that create a natural shape. This approach leads to an open layout that invites exploration and interaction. A distinct aspect of the center is the long, curved outdoor viewing deck, which represents the neck of the flamingo. This design allows visitors to enjoy views of the wetlands while fostering engagement with the environment.

Ecological Sensitivity
The placement of the visitor center reflects a commitment to ecological awareness. The design ensures minimal disturbance to the flamingo habitat, allowing nature and visitors to coexist. The center serves not only as a space for observation but also as a means to educate the public about the importance of conservation and the protection of wildlife.

Materials and Sustainability
A notable material used in the building is photochromic material, which changes color when exposed to UV light. This feature enhances the visual appeal while providing passive shading. The structure’s framework consists of steel, which offers strength and supports quick construction. Additionally, precast concrete elements help reduce waste, aligning with sustainable building practices.

Visitor Experience
The center includes multiple observation points, with a 360-degree viewing deck on the top floor. This feature allows visitors to take in the full scope of the wetlands and observe wildlife without causing disruption. Large glass panels throughout the facility connect indoor spaces with the outdoors, maintaining a focus on the surrounding environment and providing ample opportunities for observation.

The cantilevered shade structure extends from the main body of the building, resembling a flamingo in flight. This design detail not only offers shade but also adds to the unique character of the visitor center, enhancing the overall experience for those who come to explore the wetlands.

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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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