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Egg-Shaped Pavilions with Steel Framework Overlooking Wetlands

Authors:
Nadim Helal, Fadi Helal, Nidal Sido, Shihab Abdulla
Egg-Shaped Pavilions with Steel Framework Overlooking Wetlands

Project in-detail

Five egg-shaped pavilions constructed with a steel framework and wooden-clad insulated panels create a dynamic visitor center that engages with the surrounding wetlands while offering educational and recreational experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Five egg-shaped pavilions inspired by the natural form of flamingos.
02
Central courtyard designed for community engagement and events.
03
Solar panels integrated into the south-facing roofs for energy efficiency.
04
Prefabricated construction methods minimize site disturbance.
05
Rainwater harvesting and HVAC drainage reused for landscaping.

The Bird's Nest Visitor Center is located at Al Wathba Flamingo Park, a place known for its diverse wildlife and unique wetlands. It is designed to serve as an educational and recreational space for visitors. The center consists of five egg-shaped pavilions arranged around a central courtyard. This arrangement encourages movement and interaction while drawing on the essence of the flamingo's natural habitat. The design reflects the forms found in nature, ensuring an experience that connects visitors to the surrounding ecosystem.

Design Inspiration and Layout

The shape of the pavilions mimics that of eggs, presenting a gentle and inviting aesthetic. The central courtyard acts as the heart of the center, providing wide views of the wetlands. This space promotes a sense of community, as it allows visitors to gather and share experiences. Key facilities such as the Information Centre, Display Hall, Training Hall, Gift Shop, and Coffee Shop are easily accessible, allowing smooth navigation through the center.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a key aspect of the design. The pavilions are arranged to take advantage of natural ventilation, which helps keep the indoor spaces comfortable. Openings are strategically placed to promote airflow, reducing the heat from the sun. Solar panels on the roofs collect energy, and rainwater along with HVAC discharge is reused for landscaping, aligning with environmental principles.

Construction and Materials

The construction approach focuses on prefabrication, which allows for efficient assembly and reduces disruption on-site. The structure is built with a steel framework, utilizing wooden-clad insulated panels and aluminum curtain walls. These materials have been chosen for their durability and performance. Together, they help create a lasting structure that fits into the natural landscape.

The design effectively blends the pavilions into the wetlands, where each building serves a functional role while enhancing the appreciation of the area. The orientation creates clear lines of sight, inviting visitors to engage with the habitat and experience the thoughtful planning behind the structure.

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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

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competition now

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