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Flamingo-Inspired Oval Structure Integrating Natural Colors and Education

Authors:
Ghada Al-baqoum, Aya Sallam, Alaa Al_shidaifat, Mayass Jaber
Flamingo-Inspired Oval Structure Integrating Natural Colors and Education

Project in-detail

The large oval form, reflecting the graceful movement of flamingos, integrates a thoughtful color transition from white to pink while serving as a Visitor Center that fosters education and awareness within the Al-Wathba Wetlands.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building's central oval mass is designed to mimic the graceful foraging motion of flamingos.
02
Visitors experience a color transition from white to pink as they ascend, reflecting flamingo health indicators.
03
Continuous ramps create an accessible flow between indoor and outdoor environments.
04
Strategic sightlines offer panoramic views of the Al-Wathba Wetlands habitat.
05
The design promotes ecological awareness through interactive spatial features and natural soundscapes.

The Visitors Center at Al-Wathba Wetlands Reserve serves as a connection point between visitors and the rich natural environment surrounding it. This facility is designed to highlight the diverse wildlife, particularly flamingos, that inhabit the wetlands. The design emphasizes an accessible and engaging experience for all visitors, aiming to promote awareness of both conservation and the ecosystem.

Architectural Form
At the heart of the design is a large oval mass that reflects the elegant movements of flamingos as they search for food. This main feature captures attention and encourages people to explore the space freely. The design not only fits well with the landscape but also enhances the experience of being in nature, showcasing both the building and the wetlands.



Visitor Experience
The layout consists of ramps and pathways that allow smooth movement between indoor and outdoor areas. This design choice helps visitors feel connected to their surroundings. Elements like the sounds of water and changing light enhance the sensory experience throughout the day. Carefully designed sightlines provide wide views of the wetlands, creating opportunities for people to appreciate the area's wildlife.



Color and Symbolism
A notable aspect of the design is the use of color, which transitions from white to pink, mirroring the appearance of flamingos. This gradient not only adds beauty but also carries a message about the importance of conservation. As visitors move upward through the center, they engage with this color change, connecting them to the themes of ecology and awareness.



Natural Integration
While the materials used in the design are not specified, the overall intention suggests a focus on sustainability and harmony with the environment. The wavy roof and sunbreakers allow light to enter in varying ways, casting interesting shadows and creating shifting colors inside. Each design detail contributes to a meaningful relationship between the building and the natural world it is part of.

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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

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