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Elevated Steel Pillars Reflect Flamingo Legs in Nature Observation Tower

Authors:
Tudor Rusu, Diana Gurică, Daria Frunza, Theodora Kelemen
Elevated Steel Pillars Reflect Flamingo Legs in Nature Observation Tower

Project in-detail

Steel pillars resembling flamingo legs elevate viewing platforms, creating an immersive experience for birdwatchers while ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding wetland ecosystem.
5 key facts about this project
01
Steel pillars reflect the form of flamingo legs, enhancing connection to the local wildlife.
02
The observation tower features multiple viewing heights for varied perspectives of the wetlands.
03
Materials are sourced locally to promote sustainability and minimize environmental impact.
04
Open platforms invite natural light and allow unobstructed views of surrounding ecology.
05
The design includes elements that guide visitor focus to significant wildlife activity areas.

The design located in Al Wathba Wetland Reserve serves as a bird observation tower that connects visitors with the natural environment. Positioned in a biodiverse area, the structure provides excellent opportunities for observing local wildlife, particularly flamingos. The design draws inspiration from nature, resulting in a functional and meaningful addition to the landscape.

Design Concept

The concept takes cues from the elegant form of flamingos, reflected in the tall, slender platforms of the tower. This approach helps the structure blend into its environment while still being a useful observation point. Elevated areas allow for unobstructed views of the wetlands, encouraging people to engage with the rich biodiversity that surrounds them.

Structure and Layout

The tower features a well-organized arrangement of platforms, creating a grid-like configuration. This design includes two open platforms that guide visitors to a higher main observation space. The thoughtful layout enhances accessibility and exploration, allowing guests to use various levels to discover different perspectives of the landscape. Each platform is designed to provide critical sightlines essential for effective birdwatching.

Materiality

Sustainability and local sourcing play an important role in the materials used for the structure. The choice of durable materials ensures that the design remains robust and easy to maintain, reflecting a commitment to ecological responsibility. Steel pillars support the platforms, paralleling the flamingo’s natural form. This combination of materials contributes to the overall strength of the tower while maintaining its connection to the surrounding environment.

Visitor Interaction

The design encourages visitors to explore and learn about the wetlands. Features within the observation tower guide attention to specific areas and wildlife, fostering an immersive experience. Openings in the flooring invite curiosity, prompting guests to pause and observe the vibrant environment below. The design aims to promote a deeper connection with nature, helping visitors appreciate the delicate balance of the wetland ecosystem.

The result is a structure that harmonizes with its surroundings. Elevated platforms echo the elegance of flamingos, allowing visitors to observe the thriving wildlife while remaining grounded in the reality of its ecosystem.

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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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