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Feathered Roof Design With Glazed Glass Enveloping A Sustainable Visitor Center

Author:
Magdy Ibrahim
Feathered Roof Design With Glazed Glass Enveloping A Sustainable Visitor Center

Project in-detail

Employing a feathered roof design and high-performance glazed glass, the structure enhances natural ventilation and thermal efficiency while serving as an educational visitor center focused on the unique ecology of its desert surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The roof's feathered design actively reduces solar gain and enhances airflow.
02
Glazed façades optimize natural light while maintaining thermal efficiency.
03
Vertical wooden fins promote natural ventilation and provide shading.
04
Pre-cast concrete walls feature air cavities for improved insulation.
05
The elevated wooden flooring contributes to sustainable building practices.
The Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center is a purpose-built facility designed to provide an educational and engaging experience for visitors interested in the unique wildlife and ecology of the surrounding region. Situated in a climate characterized by high temperatures and intense sunlight, the architectural design emphasizes sustainability, comfort, and integration with the natural landscape.

The building’s concept is inspired by the natural formations in the environment, manifesting as a cloud-like structure that offers shade and shelter. This design approach not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the project but also serves functional elements by reducing solar gain and facilitating natural ventilation.

Unique Design Approaches

A key feature of the visitor center is its roof structure, characterized by its undulating form resembling natural elements. This roof design utilizes vertical wooden fins that extend outward, providing shade and optimizing airflow throughout the building. The integration of high-performance glazed glass in the façade further enhances natural light penetration while minimizing thermal transfer, promoting energy efficiency.

The interior layout is configured to accommodate various functions, including exhibit spaces, a café, and educational facilities. The open floor plan encourages interaction among visitors while providing unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. The careful selection of materials, such as pre-cast concrete panels with air cavities, enhances thermal insulation. This choice of materials aligns with the building’s objective of sustainability, demonstrating a commitment to reducing energy consumption without compromising aesthetic integrity.

Materials and Construction Details

The architectural design incorporates several key materials to achieve its functional and aesthetic goals. Pre-cast concrete panels form the structural walls, ensuring durability. Vertical wooden fins are strategically placed for shading purposes, moderating the building’s temperature. The glazed roof enhances light quality while maintaining thermal efficiency. An elevated wooden floor adds to the building's sustainability, allowing for better air circulation beneath the structure.

The project responds effectively to the climatic challenges of the Abu Dhabi region, with design elements that facilitate passive cooling and natural ventilation. These features enhance visitor comfort while minimizing reliance on mechanical climate control systems.

Through its thoughtful design, the Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center provides a valuable resource for education and engagement with the local environment. Visitors are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that inform this project, offering deeper insights into its innovative approaches and overall architectural ideas. Engaging with these elements can enhance one's understanding of the facility's significance within its ecological context.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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