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Feather-Inspired Cantilevered Structure Embracing Natural Light and Green Spaces

Author:
Sara Abalkhail
Feather-Inspired Cantilevered Structure Embracing Natural Light and Green Spaces

Project in-detail

The cantilevered spine, inspired by feather structures, enhances natural light and creates dynamic shadow patterns while providing a functional space for eco-conscious visitors to engage with the surrounding natural reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
A central cantilevered spine mirrors the structure of flamingo feathers, enhancing visual and spatial dynamics.
02
Colored lighting integrated within the spine enhances the interior ambiance and visitor experience.
03
Pathways are designed to seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor environments for continuous engagement with nature.
04
The layout includes hidden doors for private spaces, promoting an unobtrusive flow throughout the center.
05
Constructed using environmentally friendly techniques, the design minimizes disruption to the natural landscape.

The Flamingo Visitor Center is located near a natural reserve, designed to engage visitors with the ecosystem surrounding it. The architecture reflects the unique characteristics of flamingos, using their anatomy as a source of inspiration. The visitor center is intended to create a memorable experience through its thoughtful design and spatial arrangement, which promotes a strong connection to nature.

Conceptual Framework

The design is heavily inspired by the structure of flamingo feathers, leading to a segmented form. A central spine serves both visual and structural purposes, guiding visitors from the entrance to the natural landscape. This spine emphasizes the link between the building and its environment, facilitating smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor areas.

Spatial Organization

Inside, the layout is organized to accommodate different activities while fostering a sense of openness. The primary structural elements have a straightforward geometric shape, which contrasts with the natural feel of the pathways and green spaces surrounding them. This combination encourages interaction with both the architecture and the land, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature.

Lighting and Ambiance

Colored lighting is integrated within the central spine to enhance the atmosphere inside. This design choice provides important illumination and adds vibrancy to the space. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the building creates a dynamic environment that deepens the visitor experience.

Sustainability and Construction

The construction methods used prioritize environmental friendliness. Techniques are chosen to minimize disruption to the surrounding ecosystem. The weaving methods employed in the building's structure demonstrate a commitment to both design and sustainability, complementing the landscapes while ensuring the building remains resilient.

The central cantilevered spine varies in height, creating a visual focal point that attracts attention. Its design draws parallels to the delicate structure of a feather, reinforcing the connection to the flamingo throughout the visitor center and enhancing the overall experience for all who enter.

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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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