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Elevated Wetland Experience with Glazed Panels and Community Interaction

Authors:
Mai Elhossiny, Boosy Elhossiny, Dina Elhossiny
Elevated Wetland Experience with Glazed Panels and Community Interaction
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Inspired by flamingos, the design features glazed panels and multi-level spaces that foster community interaction while serving as an educational hub within the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the feeding behaviors of flamingos, the building form transforms from upright to submerged levels.
02
Glazed panels enhance natural lighting while maintaining climate control throughout the interior.
03
The design includes educational exhibits about local wildlife native to the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve.
04
Multi-level spaces promote interaction and connectivity among visitors.
05
Floor overhangs provide shade, reducing energy consumption in the building's operation.

The design is inspired by the unique characteristics and behaviors of flamingos, located in the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve. The building serves a variety of functions, including a waiting area, offices, and exhibition spaces, all while taking on a form that reflects the essence of these birds. The design emphasizes connectivity and interaction, mirroring the social aspects of flamingo life.

Design Concept

The architecture incorporates mirroring and interlocking elements that enhance its visual appeal and promote a sense of community. The form of the building represents the feeding process of flamingos, moving from an upright position to a submerged stance. This transformation adds a dynamic element to the overall experience of the space.

Spatial Organization

The layout is thoughtfully arranged to include key areas such as a lobby, reception, and various amenities. This design prioritizes accessibility and allows visitors and staff to move easily through the environment. The organization of the space encourages interaction among users while accommodating different types of activities.

Architectural Features

Important architectural elements include roof insulation, which improves energy efficiency, and floor overhangs that provide necessary shading. Glass fins and spider fittings contribute to a more open atmosphere, creating clear views between inside and outside. Glazed vision panels allow natural light in, while tinted glass helps control the internal climate and enhances the overall look of the building.

Exhibition Areas

Within the project, exhibition spaces aim to educate visitors about local wildlife. They present information on bird life cycles and various species statistics. This aspect of the design integrates education into the overall experience, making the building not just a functional space but also a resource that informs about the surrounding nature.

The design culminates in an elevated terrace that offers views of the nearby wetlands, encouraging visitors to engage with the ecological environment. This design detail reinforces the connection between the structure and its natural setting.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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