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Flamingo Wing Structure With Weathering Steel Frame Overlooking Educational Wetland

Authors:
James Pitropov, Susan Morgan
Flamingo Wing Structure With Weathering Steel Frame Overlooking Educational Wetland

Project in-detail

The structure's unique design, inspired by the form of a flamingo wing and constructed with a weathering steel frame, provides an educational visitor center that integrates seamlessly with the Al Wathba Wetlands while promoting ecological awareness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the dynamics of a flamingo wing for its architectural form.
02
Constructed with a treated weathering steel frame for durability in desert conditions.
03
Features interactive glass floors that connect visitors to the wetland below.
04
Includes a demonstration wetland designed for educational purposes.
05
Utilizes a minimal two-point support system to reduce environmental impact.

Under the Wing is designed to respond to the unique environment of the Al Wathba Wetlands while providing essential facilities for visitors. The project emphasizes a strong connection to nature, drawing inspiration from the form of a flamingo wing. Its design allows for minimal disruption of the desert landscape, blending functionality with a creative aesthetic.

Conceptual Framework
The design emphasizes a parametric approach that reflects organic shapes found in nature. By supporting the structure at just two points on the ground, the building reduces its impact on the environment. This architectural choice creates a sense of lightness and encourages visitors to move fluidly through the space. Each area is connected, guiding visitors effortlessly from entry to exit.

Functional Spaces
Visitors will encounter multiple functional areas designed to enhance their experience. The journey begins in a welcoming reception area, followed by administrative offices and exhibition spaces. Interactive glass floors invite exploration, adding an engaging element. Facilities like a café and gift shop are included to support visitor needs while preserving the overall flow of movement. An outdoor promenade further enriches the visit, providing views of the surrounding wetland.

Material Approach
Materials chosen for the structure play a key role in its design. The main framework is constructed from treated parametric weathering steel, known for its resilience in harsh climates. This is paired with a curtain wall made from recycled titanium and laminated glass, allowing natural light to illuminate the interior. The use of tempered glass in viewing areas helps connect the inside with nature outside.

Environmental Integration
An educational demonstration wetland is integrated into the design, supporting ecological education and awareness. This feature serves as both a learning tool and a method for evaporative cooling, ensuring a comfortable environment for visitors. To promote efficiency, the building is designed to be fabricated off-site. It is relocatable and can be repurposed, highlighting its sustainable approach in adapting to future needs.

The roof shape mimics the arc of a flamingo wing. This design choice contributes to a cohesive visual language that reinforces the building's relationship with its environment while offering visual interest and enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

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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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