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Elevated Observation Deck Featuring Expanded Metal and Prestressed Foundations Amidst Natural Wetlands

Authors:
Uli Schifferdecker, Daniel Nocker
Elevated Observation Deck Featuring Expanded Metal and Prestressed Foundations Amidst Natural Wetlands

Project in-detail

Set upon prestressed screw foundations, the observation deck boasts a façade of expanded metal that seamlessly integrates with the surrounding wetlands, providing a unique platform for wildlife observation and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
The observation deck is elevated on prestressed screw foundations, minimizing ground disturbance in the sensitive wetland ecosystem.
02
It features a façade made of expanded metal sheets, allowing for natural light filtration while providing unobstructed views of the surroundings.
03
The design incorporates adjustable elements that adapt to varying weather conditions, enhancing visitor comfort throughout the year.
04
Inclusive accessibility is prioritized with intersecting ramps and staircases, accommodating visitors of all abilities.
05
The structure emphasizes ecological integration, with minimal visual impact on the landscape, blending seamlessly into the natural environment.
The Al Wathba Wetland Observation Platform is an architectural project meticulously designed to act as a bridge between nature and human interaction within the unique ecosystem of the Al Wathba Wetlands in the United Arab Emirates. This platform exemplifies a thoughtful response to the site’s rich biodiversity, offering visitors an opportunity to engage with the environment while ensuring minimal impact on the delicate habitat around it.

The core function of the observation platform is to facilitate an experience of observation and education within the wetlands. The structure accommodates various visitor activities, including wildlife observation, educational programs, and individual reflection. It is not merely a viewing structure; it represents an invitation to immerse oneself in the local ecosystem, enhancing public awareness of environmental conservation efforts.

One of the prominent features of the design is the use of an elongated, linear form that allows for extensive sightlines across the wetlands. This approach is intentional, as it encourages a seamless connection between visitors and the landscape. The design strategy emphasizes transparency and lightness, achieved through the choice of materials and the building’s configuration. By utilizing expanded metal sheets for the façade, the architecture creates a unique interface that filters natural light and frames views, thereby adding a dynamic quality to the visitor experience.

The choice of materials plays an essential role in the project’s sustainability narrative. The structure is elevated on a series of prestressed screw pillars, which significantly reduces ground disturbance during construction. This method not only supports the platform but also upholds the ecological integrity of the wetlands, allowing for minimal disruption to local flora and fauna. The use of durable materials ensures the longevity of the platform, maintaining its structural integrity while presenting a visually harmonious element within the natural landscape.

Accessibility is a crucial consideration in the design of the platform. The architecture incorporates intersecting staircases and ramps, ensuring that visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy the facilities. This inclusivity further enhances the platform's function as a community space, fostering engagement with nature and promoting educational opportunities for a diverse audience.

The overall design resonates with the principles of adaptive architecture, where the built environment responds to the ambient conditions and user needs. By allowing for adjustable elements in the façade, the design can adapt to changing light conditions throughout the day. This flexibility not only increases comfort for visitors but also reduces energy consumption, showcasing an environmentally conscious approach.

The Al Wathba Wetland Observation Platform reflects an architectural ethos that respects and prioritizes nature. It stands as a functional yet unobtrusive structure that becomes a part of the landscape rather than imposing upon it. With its emphasis on education, inclusivity, and sustainability, the project is a significant contributor to the narrative of conservation and public engagement in environmental stewardship.

For those interested in learning more about this thoughtfully designed structure, exploring architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural ideas will provide deeper insights into the project’s comprehensive design philosophy and execution. Engaging with these elements can offer a richer understanding of how architecture can harmoniously coexist with the natural world.
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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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