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Ecological Hub Crafted From Sustainable Bamboo and Hempcrete Integrating Natural Wetland Habitat

Authors:
Phurin Jungteerapanich, Phatchanon Varanukulsak, Panas Saengvanich, Kittimont Kookasemkij
Ecological Hub Crafted From Sustainable Bamboo and Hempcrete Integrating Natural Wetland Habitat

Project in-detail

Crafted from bamboo and hempcrete, the observatory seamlessly integrates with the wetlands to support ecological education and research while fostering local biodiversity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from locally sourced bamboo and hempcrete for sustainability.
02
Features an adaptive design that changes function with seasonal cycles.
03
Incorporates educational trails that enhance visitor interaction with the ecosystem.
04
Integrates natural habitats within the structure to support local wildlife.
05
Employs biophilic design principles to strengthen the connection with nature.

### Project Overview

The Cumulative Phenomenon is situated in the Al Wathba Wetland of Abu Dhabi, a region noted for its rich biodiversity and seasonal bird populations. This design functions as an interactive educational space, adapting to the seasonal cycles and aiming to fulfill both educational and ecological roles within the landscape.

### Spatial Strategy and User Interaction

The architectural configuration features a multi-tiered circular observation tower, designed with organic lines to enhance views of the surrounding wetland. Pathways elevate visitors, offering diverse perspectives that change with the seasons, thereby fostering engagement with the environment. The project includes specialized trails, such as the Flamingo and Lizard Trails, allowing for varied exploration that encourages repeat visits.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Key materials include bamboo for structural support, lauded for its sustainability and strength, and hempcrete for the foundation, known for its biodegradability and insulation properties. Rattan elements are incorporated in railings and shading features, utilizing locally sourced materials responsibly. The integration of temporary fabric provides adaptable shading solutions, enabling the structure to respond dynamically to seasonal needs. Additionally, biophilic design principles are central to the project, creating habitats for local wildlife and implementing water management strategies that enhance microclimates within the site.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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