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Elevated Viewing Platform Crafted With Engineered Wood and Lattice Panels For Wetland Observation

Author:
Markus Wendén
Elevated Viewing Platform Crafted With Engineered Wood and Lattice Panels For Wetland Observation

Project in-detail

Crafted from engineered wood and enhanced by circular openings that frame views of the wetlands, the structure serves as an elevated platform for observing and interacting with the surrounding ecosystem.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from engineered wood to enhance durability and sustainability.
02
Incorporates circular openings that frame specific views of the wetland ecosystem.
03
Features a bent A-frame design for structural efficiency and aesthetic interest.
04
Elevated structure minimizes ground disturbance and preserves local habitats.
05
Integrated lattice panels provide solar shading while maintaining natural ventilation.

The architectural project “Something” located at the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve in Abu Dhabi represents an intentional response to the surrounding ecological landscape. Designed with the dual purpose of enhancing visitor interaction and preserving natural habitats, this structure embodies a commitment to sustainability and thoughtful engagement with the environment. The project is characterized by its use of elevated platforms and accessible pathways that allow visitors to observe the wetlands without disturbing the delicate ecosystem.

The design employs a combination of engineered wood and composite materials, ensuring both structural integrity and environmental compatibility. Circular openings in the facade provide views to the wetlands while creating spatial intrigue within the structure. This arrangement allows for opportunities for reflection and observation, embodying the project's core principle of encouraging gentle interaction with nature.

The layout includes multiple levels that allow for varied viewing perspectives of the wetlands, underscoring a design strategy that promotes exploration. The careful integration of ramps facilitates accessibility, making it easy for all visitors to navigate the space. In addition, the lattice panel system serves a dual purpose: offering solar shading while maintaining ventilation and natural lighting, thus optimizing user comfort without compromising the visibility of the surroundings.

Sustainability is at the forefront of the design approach for this project. By elevating the structure, the design minimizes ground disturbance, preserving existing flora and fauna. Materials chosen for construction have been selected not only for their structural capabilities but also for their environmental performance, aligning with sustainable practices in architecture.

The project significantly stands out due to its contextual sensitivity. It serves not merely as an observational platform but also as an educational tool that fosters awareness about local ecosystems. The architectural design is tailored to create a seamless transition between built and natural environments, encouraging an immersive experience for visitors.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural strategies employed in “Something,” I encourage you to explore the architectural plans and sections available for this project. Engaging with these details will enhance your understanding of the innovative architectural ideas that have shaped this installation and its thoughtful integration into the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve.

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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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