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Elevated Dome Structures Tethered by Timber and Glass in a Coastal Habitat Visitor Center

Author:
Rui Guimaraes
Elevated Dome Structures Tethered by Timber and Glass in a Coastal Habitat Visitor Center

Project in-detail

Elevated on stilts, the circular domes of this visitor center, constructed from locally sourced wood and glass, create a harmonious connection to the coastal habitat while providing an immersive experience for education and conservation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building is elevated on stilts to minimize ecological disruption and preserve the local flora and fauna.
02
Dome-shaped structures mirror the form of flamingo eggs, creating a symbolic connection to the habitat.
03
Extensive use of charred wooden shingles enhances durability while blending with the natural landscape.
04
Circular design promotes seamless visitor flow, encouraging interaction with various educational spaces.
05
Passive solar design techniques optimize energy efficiency and reduce reliance on mechanical systems.
The Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center is a noteworthy architectural project designed to enhance the interface between humans and nature, offering a unique educational experience focused on the ecological significance of flamingos in the region. This building stands not just as a visitor center, but as a living exhibit, reflecting the commitment to conservation and education within the framework of contemporary architecture.

The architectural design embodies the essence of a coastal habitat, drawing inspiration from the natural form of flamingo nests and eggs. By incorporating dome-shaped structures, the design captures the organic shape of the environment while allowing for advanced functionalities. These domes serve as the primary visual and spatial elements, cleverly balanced on elevated stilts, which minimize impact on the ground and preserve the surrounding vegetation. This elevated design ensures that the building harmoniously coexists with its natural backdrop, enabling wildlife and plant life to flourish beneath and around it.

Functionally, the Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center accommodates a range of visitor activities, seamlessly integrating educational exhibits with recreational spaces. The design includes a visitor shop, an interactive training center, and an amphitheater, each serving a distinct purpose while encouraging exploration and interaction. The circular layout allows visitors to navigate smoothly through different zones, promoting an immersive experience that encourages engagement with the environment. Each space is designed not only for functionality but also for enjoyment, ensuring that visitors of all ages can learn about conservation efforts in an engaging manner.

A notable aspect of the project is its thoughtful material selection, which plays a pivotal role in connecting the building with its natural surroundings. The extensive use of wood for structural elements imbues warmth into the space while ensuring environmental sustainability. Glass facades enhance transparency, allowing natural light to fill the interiors and providing uninterrupted views of the expansive ecological reserve. The inclusion of steel offers structural integrity, while painted concrete surfaces add a tactile quality that echoes the textures found in nature.

The architectural approach taken in this project is notable for its alignment with contemporary sustainability practices. By elevating the structures and using locally sourced materials, the center minimizes its ecological footprint and embodies a modern sensibility of environmental responsibility. This design also emphasizes passive solar techniques, which help in regulating interior temperatures while reducing the reliance on energy-intensive systems.

The Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center stands as a testament to modern architectural design that is sensitive to its environment and context. It encourages visitors not only to appreciate the beauty of the flamingo habitat but also to understand the importance of ecological conservation. The result is a functional yet aesthetically pleasing building that serves its purpose effectively while also inviting contemplation and interaction with the surrounding landscape.

For a more comprehensive understanding of this striking project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas will provide deeper insights into the thoughtful design processes and decisions made throughout the development of the Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center. This exploration could enrich your appreciation of how architecture can serve as a platform for education and conservation in our natural world.
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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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