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Cylindrical Observation Structure Crafted from Fiber-Reinforced Concrete With Desert Integration

Authors:
Paola Reynoso, Yetzi Tafoya, Armando Quintana, Alan christopher Torres
Cylindrical Observation Structure Crafted from Fiber-Reinforced Concrete With Desert Integration

Project in-detail

Crafted from fiber-reinforced concrete and designed with a cylindrical observation tower, this structure harmoniously integrates into the desert landscape, providing an educational space for visitors to experience and learn about the unique ecological environment of the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with fiber-reinforced concrete for enhanced sustainability and durability.
02
Features a cylindrical observation tower that provides panoramic views of the wetland and desert.
03
Incorporates a winding boardwalk designed to minimize ecological disruption while facilitating visitor movement.
04
Utilizes natural ventilation strategies through an open patio design, integrating indoor and outdoor spaces.
05
Educational spaces focus on promoting awareness of the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve's unique ecosystem.

## Architectural Report: Timeless Cave Project

### Project Overview

Timeless Cave is a significant architectural structure located within the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, approximately 40 kilometers southeast of Abu Dhabi, UAE. Established in a desert context that features expansive landscapes and unique ecological habitats, the structure aims to foster a dialogue between modern architectural principles and the natural environment, enhancing visitors' understanding of the interplay between architecture and time.

### Integration of Environment and User Experience

The design prioritizes interaction with the surrounding ecosystem, minimizing ecological disruption through careful site placement. By functioning as both a building and a sensory observation point, it enhances the visitor experience within the unique wetland habitat characterized by lagoons and diverse wildlife. The cylindrical observation tower serves as a focal point, offering expansive views while its open-plan design incorporates a central patio to optimize natural light and airflow, aligning with the overall concept of connecting indoor and outdoor environments.

### Material Selection and Methodology

The construction employs a range of materials designed to support sustainability and reduce environmental impact. Fibre-reinforced concrete, a sustainable low-carbon alternative known as Finit, is utilized alongside locally sourced materials from the desert landscape to ensure minimal disruption. Glass elements in the viewing portals facilitate interaction with the natural environment while maintaining structural integrity. The construction methodology involves in-situ techniques that further minimize ecological footprints, harmonizing modern design with the region’s architectural heritage.

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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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