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Floating Concrete Roof Enhances Visitor Experience at Wetland Retreat

Author:
Kaikang Shen
Floating Concrete Roof Enhances Visitor Experience at Wetland Retreat

Project in-detail

With a floating concrete roof that captures the essence of the surrounding wetlands, the visitor center invites exploration and education about the region's diverse ecology and vibrant birdlife.
5 key facts about this project
01
The visitor center features a floating concrete roof designed to mimic local topography and allows natural light to filter through circular openings.
02
Extensive glass facades create unobstructed views of the surrounding wetlands, fostering a strong connection between visitors and the environment.
03
An underground mechanical system conceals operational infrastructure, maintaining visual clarity and aesthetic integrity throughout the site.
04
The center incorporates native vegetation and water features in its landscaping to reinforce ecological sustainability and enhance biodiversity.
05
Curved, undulating forms define the architecture, reflecting the movement of wind and water, evoking the dynamics of the natural landscape.
The architectural project known as "The Solidified Breeze in Desert" is strategically located in Abu Dhabi, nestled adjacent to the Wathba Wetland Reserve. This visitor center is designed to enhance public engagement with the local ecosystem while providing an informative backdrop for the rich birdlife, particularly the flamingo populations that inhabit the wetlands. The project represents a thoughtful integration of architecture and nature, aiming to create a space that is both functional and aesthetically aligned with its natural surroundings.

The visitor center serves multiple purposes, including an information hub, exhibition space, and a venue for educational activities. It offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the unique ecological aspects of the region while experiencing the tranquility of the desert landscape. The architectural design is inherently reflective of the delicate interplay between the natural and built environments, promoting harmony and sustainability.

Essential to the design are the flowing forms and soft lines that encapsulate the idea of movement—conceptually inspired by wind and water dynamics. White concrete is masterfully utilized to create a sculptural form that appears to float above the ground, embodying the essence of the desert while establishing a visual weightlessness. This choice of material is not only practical, providing structural stability, but it also delivers an inviting aesthetic that resonates with the local geography.

Large expanses of glass facilitate visual and physical connectivity between the indoor spaces and the surrounding wetlands. This transparency invites visitors to engage with the environment, offering expansive views that enhance their appreciation for the stunning natural landscape. The architectural design also incorporates strategically placed circular perforations in the roof, cleverly allowing natural sunlight to filter through. This feature creates captivating light patterns inside and establishes a mood that echoes the flowing waters present in the nearby wetlands.

The project’s spatial planning reveals a thoughtful arrangement of functional areas, catering to visitor needs while ensuring an intuitive flow throughout the center. Important spaces include a welcome area, exhibition zones, educational rooms, and a café, all designed to encourage exploration. The roof terrace stands out as a unique feature, providing visitors with a panoramic vantage point where they can observe the wetlands and the flourishing birdlife, creating a deeper connection to the setting.

One of the most notable aspects of this architectural design is the hybrid approach to infrastructure. By situating mechanical and operational systems underground, the center enhances its aesthetic appeal and minimizes visual clutter. This thoughtful integration reinforces the project's commitment to a seamless engagement with nature, ensuring that the building complements rather than detracts from the landscape.

The landscaping surrounding the visitor center is equally important, designed to imitate and enhance the local ecology. Native vegetation and water features are incorporated to harmonize with the architecture, thereby reinforcing the ecological narrative that the center aims to communicate. This attention to environmental detail underscores the broader ecological message of conservation, which is a fundamental aim of the project.

In summary, "The Solidified Breeze in Desert" stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to create spaces that reflect and enhance their environments. By integrating natural elements, thoughtful planning, and sustainable practices, this visitor center not only fulfills its functional objectives but also contributes to the overall appreciation of the unique ecological heritage of Abu Dhabi. For those keen to explore the nuances of the design further, including architectural plans, sections, and innovative ideas, delving deeper into the project presentation is highly encouraged.
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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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