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Curvilinear Composite Wood Structure Overlooking Vibrant Wetlands

Authors:
Celso Creer ii, Anthony Austria, Ibarra Burayag
Curvilinear Composite Wood Structure Overlooking Vibrant Wetlands

Project in-detail

A curvilinear composite wood structure integrates seamlessly with the wetland landscape, providing elevated vantage points for observing diverse wildlife while promoting sustainable practices and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
A curvilinear form mimics the natural movement of wetland vegetation.
02
The use of composite wood enhances sustainability and reduces construction waste.
03
Elevated viewing platforms offer diverse perspectives of the surrounding wildlife.
04
Local stone integrates the structure with its natural environment.
05
Universal accessibility features ensure inclusivity for all visitors.
The Abu Dhabi Flamingo Observation Tower is a pivotal architectural project located in the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, approximately 40 kilometers southeast of Abu Dhabi, UAE. This tower is designed to enhance visitor experience while promoting environmental awareness, serving as both an observation point for wildlife and a structured interaction with the surrounding wetlands. The design integrates elements of nature, sustainability, and cultural context, providing a platform for educational and recreational activities.

Innovative Structural Form
The observation tower features a sinuous, organic form that mirrors the natural contours of the wetland landscape. This fluid design allows for multiple vantage points where visitors can observe the diverse ecosystem, including the flamingo population. The tower rises gracefully, with curvilinear lines that create a seamless connection between the architecture and the environment. The structure’s composition emphasizes verticality and openness, ensuring unobstructed views while allowing natural light to permeate the internal spaces.

Key materials used in the construction include composite wood, which is favored for its sustainability and aesthetic attributes. The wooden façade is complemented by metal elements for structural integrity, local stone for grounding elements, and glass sections that enhance visibility and connectivity with nature. These materials are selected not only for their functional properties but also for their alignment with the project's ecological goals.

Sustainable Design Practices
The observation tower exemplifies sustainable design principles through its eco-friendly features. Passive solar strategies are implemented to minimize energy consumption, while rainwater harvesting systems support the landscape irrigation needs, illustrating a commitment to responsible resource management. The incorporation of native vegetation around the structure supports local biodiversity and reinforces the ecological narrative of the design.

Accessibility and Community Engagement
The tower’s design prioritizes universal accessibility, ensuring that all visitors, regardless of ability, can engage with the space comfortably. It integrates features such as gentle ramps and spacious gathering areas to facilitate movement through different levels. Furthermore, internal spaces are adaptable to host educational programs, exhibitions, and community events, fostering a social connection to the site's natural environment.

In summary, the Abu Dhabi Flamingo Observation Tower stands as a significant architectural endeavor that harmonizes form, function, and context. It embodies a blend of sustainability and aesthetic relevance, fulfilling its role as an observational and educational facility within the wetland reserve. For a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, designs, and sections of this project, we invite readers to explore the detailed presentation of this innovative architectural work.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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