Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Curvilinear Structure Crafted From Thatch And Rammed Earth Anchored in a Wetland Habitat

Authors:
Chris Choi, Jessica Long
Curvilinear Structure Crafted From Thatch And Rammed Earth Anchored in a Wetland Habitat

Project in-detail

A curvilinear form constructed from thatch and rammed earth seamlessly integrates with the wetland landscape, offering an educational hub that raises awareness about flamingo conservation and the importance of preserving natural habitats.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design is inspired by the social behavior and postures of flamingos, creating a form that resonates with the local wildlife.
02
Operable panels enhance natural ventilation while allowing visitors to engage with the outdoor environment.
03
Constructed from locally sourced sustainable materials, including thatch and rammed earth, the building blends naturally into its surroundings.
04
The modular layout optimizes visitor flow, ensuring an immersive experience in wildlife education.
05
A lookout zone within the cottage offers unobstructed views of the wetland, promoting observation and interaction with nature.
The Flamingo Cottage, located within the Al Wathba Wetland Preserve, is a thoughtfully designed architectural project aimed at immersing visitors in the natural world of one of its most iconic inhabitants—the flamingo. This visitor center plays a key role in promoting awareness and education about wildlife conservation, specifically addressing the importance of protecting endangered species and their wetlands. The architecture of The Flamingo Cottage serves both functional and educational purposes, offering spaces that foster visitor engagement while also blending seamlessly into its surrounding environment.

The Flamingo Cottage represents a harmonious relationship between architecture and ecology. It is a structure that embodies the characteristics and behaviors of flamingos, a thoughtful homage to the local wildlife. Its design invites visitors to experience the wetlands not just as spectators, but as active participants in the preservation efforts. The building includes various essential areas such as an information desk, a gift shop, a café, a display area, a lookout zone, and a training center. Each space is deliberately arranged to facilitate ease of movement and encourage interaction, demonstrating how architecture can enhance the visitor experience in natural settings.

One of the key design approaches utilized in The Flamingo Cottage is its modular structure. Inspired by the social habits and standing postures of flamingos, the architecture features a curvilinear roofline that mimics the graceful shapes of wings in flight. This organic form not only creates a visually appealing silhouette but also serves functional purposes by enhancing airflow and natural lighting throughout the interior spaces. The operable panels integrated into the design allow for ventilation, promoting comfort while maintaining the building's structural integrity.

The materiality of The Flamingo Cottage is another important aspect. The project employs sustainable materials such as thatch for the roofing, which echoes the natural habitat of flamingos while enhancing thermal performance. The use of rammed earth for the walls provides excellent insulation and visually integrates the structure into the wetland landscape. Bamboo is utilized for structural framing, combining strength and flexibility while aligning with the project's eco-friendly ethos. This careful selection of materials not only supports the environmental narrative of the project but also adds to its aesthetic value.

The curved geometry and visually striking facades set this project apart from conventional visitor centers. Each design element serves a dual purpose, balancing form and function while reinforcing the ecological mission of the cottage. Through its unique architectural expression, The Flamingo Cottage enhances the experience of being in a wetland environment and provides an educational platform that promotes conservation awareness.

Engaging with this project offers a chance to explore not only its architectural designs but also the underlying ideas that guided its development. The thoughtful layout, innovative use of materials, and the deep connection to its ecological context make The Flamingo Cottage a noteworthy architectural endeavor. For those interested in gaining deeper insights into its design, it is encouraged to delve into the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs that bring this project to life.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy