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Curvilinear Form and Low-E Glass Interplay in a Sustainable Visitor Center Design

Author:
Marwan Omar
Curvilinear Form and Low-E Glass Interplay in a Sustainable Visitor Center Design

Project in-detail

The curvilinear roofline, composed of low-E glass and sustainable wood, harmonizes with the migratory patterns of local wildlife, creating a visitor center that enhances environmental education and community engagement in the Al Wahba Wetlands.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design mimics the flight patterns of migratory birds, creating a narrative thread throughout the structure.
02
Materials include low-E glass for energy efficiency and durable, sustainable wood elements for interior finishes.
03
A continuous ramp system enhances accessibility while guiding visitors through different viewing experiences.
04
Integrated vegetation contributes to biodiversity and provides natural cooling in outdoor spaces.
05
The curvilinear roof efficiently manages solar gain while offering expansive views of the wetlands.
Hager is a distinctive architectural project situated in the Al Wahba Wetlands, drawing on the symbolic essence of migration. The design captures the movements and behaviors of migratory birds, particularly flamingos, to create a structure that engages with its environment both functionally and visually. The project serves as a visitor center, designed to facilitate public interaction with the surrounding wetlands while promoting awareness of local ecosystems.

The building's form reflects the idea of flight, emphasizing dynamic lines that mimic the unseen trajectories of birds in the sky. This approach allows the architecture to resonate with its ecological context, so the experience of visiting Hager is enhanced by the surrounding natural beauty.

Functionally, Hager houses educational facilities and public areas that encourage engagement with the habitat and its diverse species. Visitors can learn about the ecological significance of the wetlands, participate in guided tours, and explore viewing platforms that provide expansive vistas of the landscape.

The architectural design employs a unique approach with its sweeping rooflines and continuous ramp systems, which guide visitors seamlessly from the outdoor experiences to indoor explorations. This design not only improves accessibility but also creates a path that reflects the migration theme, allowing users to contemplate the nature of movement and the flows of life within the wetlands.

The project’s materiality further distinguishes it from conventional visitor centers. Hager utilizes a combination of concrete, wood, low-E coated glass, and integrated vegetation. The concrete provides structural durability, while wood brings warmth and a natural feel to the interior spaces. The glass elements enhance transparency, providing unobstructed views of the outside environment. The strategic layering of these materials contributes to an overall aesthetic that resonates with the project's ecological aim.

Hager also incorporates several sustainable design strategies. By using performance-driven systems, it manages energy consumption effectively while prioritizing visitor comfort. The integration of local vegetation not only enhances the site's ecological viability but also creates an immersive experience that fosters a connection between visitors and the environment.

The architectural plans for Hager reflect a thoughtful synergy between built form and nature, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Readers are encouraged to explore the architectural sections and designs for more detailed insights into this project and its innovative approach to integrating nature with modern architecture. Delve into the architectural ideas present throughout Hager to understand how they do not merely serve the building’s function but also highlight its unique relationship with the surrounding wetlands.
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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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