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Curvilinear Observation Tower Crafted from Stainless Steel and Natural Wood in a Nature Reserve Setting

Authors:
Michel Boucquillon, DONIA MAAOUI - (Tunisian Architect)
Curvilinear Observation Tower Crafted from Stainless Steel and Natural Wood in a Nature Reserve Setting

Project in-detail

Crafted with a nest-inspired form using stainless steel and solid wood, the observation tower provides an elevated platform for visitors to engage with the rich biodiversity of Al Wathba Nature Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Nest-inspired structure enhances visual connectivity with the environment.
02
Multi-level design optimizes wildlife observation from various heights.
03
Constructed with durable stainless steel and locally sourced solid wood.
04
Translucent glass elements maximize natural light while minimizing visual obstruction.
05
Location within Al Wathba Nature Reserve promotes conservation awareness.

### Overview

The Bark Nest Tower is situated within the Al Wathba Nature Reserve in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Designed as an observation point, it aims to promote sustainable interaction between visitors and the surrounding ecosystem, featuring a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the region's notable flamingo population. The project emphasizes an integration with the natural landscape, providing visitors with an immersive experience that highlights the area's ecological significance.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The tower's design is influenced by the concept of bird nests, with curvilinear forms that evoke organic shapes found in nature. This structural approach fosters a tranquil environment, allowing visitors to ascend the tower while enjoying expansive views of the landscape. The multi-tiered platform structure creates layered decking that offers observation opportunities at varying heights, thereby enhancing wildlife viewing experiences. Open, reflective spaces are strategically incorporated to promote social interaction among visitors while strengthening their connection to the natural environment.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The choice of materials is fundamental to the tower's design, combining aesthetic appeal with functional performance. Stainless steel serves as the primary structural support, providing durability and resistance to the region's climatic conditions. Solid wood is utilized for flooring surfaces on the viewing platforms, contributing warmth and ensuring safety through anti-slip treatment. Galvanized steel forms the framework, maintaining structural integrity over time, while translucent glass elements are integrated into the design to maximize natural light and preserve unobstructed views. Collectively, these materials reflect the characteristics of the local environment and support the tower's sustainable design objectives.

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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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