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Flamingo-Inspired Arches Enhance Ventilation in Cultural Multi-Purpose Space

Author:
Wenhao Nie
Flamingo-Inspired Arches Enhance Ventilation in Cultural Multi-Purpose Space

Project in-detail

Inspired by the local flamingo population, the design incorporates elegant arches and strategic ventilation to create a multi-purpose space that harmonizes with Abu Dhabi's cultural and environmental context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the local flamingo habitat, the design features a central display surface resembling an outstretched wing.
02
The building incorporates traditional architectural elements like wind towers for effective natural ventilation.
03
A hexagonal layout enhances spatial organization and flow throughout the multi-purpose facility.
04
Arches serve both structural and aesthetic functions, reflecting key aspects of Islamic architecture.
05
The project demonstrates environmental integration, strategically positioned to interact with the surrounding wetland reserve.

The design in Abu Dhabi addresses the challenges posed by the tropical desert climate through a thoughtful approach that blends traditional and modern elements. It functions as a multi-purpose structure with a focus on ventilation and heat control while respecting the region's cultural heritage. The overall concept aims to create a space that is both practical and deeply rooted in the architectural history of the area.

Design Elements and Traditional Context

The project features corridors, atria, and wind towers, which play an important role in promoting airflow and minimizing heat retention. These elements are common in traditional architecture and provide effective responses to the demands of the climate. By integrating them into the design, the architect achieves a balance between functionality and local aesthetic values.

Structural Integrity and Aesthetic Form

Arches are a significant component of the building, reflecting a key aspect of Islamic architecture. These arches not only contribute to the building's stability but also add to its visual appeal. The layout incorporates regular hexagonal patterns that facilitate easy movement through the space, enhancing the overall flow and organization.

Environmental Inspiration and Integration

The design draws inspiration from the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, particularly the flamingos that inhabit the area. The main display surface is crafted to evoke the image of a flamingo with its wings outstretched, creating a dynamic form that suggests movement. This connection to local wildlife enriches the building's relationship with its surroundings.

Sustainable Design Strategies

Ventilation and shading are central to the design, highlighting a commitment to passive climate control. The arrangement of spaces is informed by the direction of prevailing winds and sunlight, which allows for a naturally cooled interior. This approach reduces reliance on mechanical systems, showing a careful consideration for environmental sustainability.

In the architectural details, the use of arches reflects the elegance of traditional forms while serving modern needs, demonstrating how thoughtful design can create a harmonious relationship with nature.

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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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