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Egg-Shaped Visitor Center Made With Charred Wooden Shingles and Eco-Friendly Materials Overlooking Wetlands

Authors:
Congyue Zhou, Xuanxiang Chen, Chenghai Hu
Egg-Shaped Visitor Center Made With Charred Wooden Shingles and Eco-Friendly Materials Overlooking Wetlands

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and an egg-shaped form, the visitor center offers elevated observation of the surrounding wetlands while seamlessly blending into the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building's egg-shaped design enhances natural airflow and sunlight penetration, reducing energy consumption.
02
A spiral ramp provides seamless accessibility for all visitors, including those with mobility needs, promoting inclusivity.
03
Birdwatching platforms are discreetly integrated into the structure to minimize disturbance to the local flamingo population.
04
Charred wooden shingles utilized in the exterior cladding improve durability and resistance to weathering.
05
Cross-laminated timber panels were selected for their sustainability and structural efficiency, contributing to a lower carbon footprint.
The Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center is an architectural project that serves as a vital point of interaction between visitors and the unique natural habitat of flamingos in the region. This visitor center not only provides a space for public engagement and education but also emphasizes the importance of wildlife conservation within its architectural design. The project embodies a thoughtful approach that harmonizes with the surrounding environment, making it a significant addition to the Abu Dhabi landscape.

The design represents a commitment to sustainability and community involvement. The architecture is conceived as a low-lying structure that integrates seamlessly with the wetlands, allowing for unobtrusive observation of the flamingo population. The building's egg-shaped form, inspired by organic shapes in nature, creates a balance between visual interest and functionality. By opting for rounded contours instead of traditional rectangular forms, the design facilitates a fluid circulation flow, enhancing visitor experience while minimizing environmental impact.

Functionally, the visitor center comprises various dedicated spaces that cater to an array of educational and recreational activities. It houses exhibition areas, interactive educational rooms, and viewing platforms specifically designed for birdwatching. A key feature of the project is the inclusion of a 50-meter spiral ramp, which leads visitors to the main entrance. This ramp not only provides accessibility for all visitors, including those with mobility needs, but also adds an engaging architectural element that encourages exploration of the site.

Inside the visitor center, open-plan layouts promote connectivity and ease of movement. Visitors can explore the space freely while engaging with informative displays about the local ecosystem. The design incorporates large glass windows and observation holes, allowing natural light to flood the interior while providing panoramic views of the surrounding wetlands. Such features are essential in creating an immersive experience where visitors can feel a connection to the environment.

The materiality of the project reflects a careful selection aimed at sustainability and harmony with nature. While specific materials may include wood, glass, and reinforced concrete, the emphasis remains on using eco-friendly options that minimize the building's ecological footprint. This thoughtful choice of materials reinforces the overarching theme of conservation, ensuring the architecture respects and enhances its natural context.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center. The sunken steps leading to the observation areas encourage visitors to engage directly with their environment, effectively blurring the lines between built and natural landscapes. The strategic placement of birdwatching platforms ensures that wildlife is observed without disturbance, promoting responsible wildlife tourism.

In summary, the Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center is a well-considered architectural project that bridges education, interaction, and conservation. Its thoughtful design strategies and functional spaces create an inviting atmosphere for all visitors, encouraging them to appreciate one of the region's most vibrant ecosystems. For those interested in exploring a deeper understanding of this architectural endeavor, a review of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide a comprehensive insight into the innovative ideas that shaped this project.
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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
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