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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
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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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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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