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Floating Observation Tower with Metal Support in a Wetland Reserve

Author:
Juan Arroyave
Floating Observation Tower with Metal Support in a Wetland Reserve

Project in-detail

A floating observation tower supported by metal elements rises above the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, providing unobstructed views and carefully designed spaces for wildlife observation and visitor engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
A floating design minimizes impact on the wetland ecosystem.
02
The observation tower offers 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape.
03
Metal supports enhance structural stability while allowing adaptability.
04
Strategically placed hiding spots promote discreet wildlife observation.
05
Paths encourage circular movement, fostering deeper visitor engagement.

The BIRD'S BEAK project is located in the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It aims to create a connection between visitors and the natural environment. The design emphasizes the idea of a floating modular platform that adjusts to the varied landscape of the wetlands. This concept allows for a rich experience focused on wildlife observation and exploration.

Floating Modular Platform
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The central feature of the design is a modular platform that floats above the ground, enabling dynamic interaction with the wetland ecosystem. This structure promotes visitor engagement while ensuring local wildlife is not disturbed. It connects different sighting points and pathways to facilitate easy movement across the site, ensuring that bird flight paths remain clear and enhancing the chances for wildlife viewing.

Observation Tower
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An important aspect of the design is the observation tower, which offers wide views of the surrounding area. Inspired by traditional lookout structures, the tower provides a place for visitors to survey the landscape. Its form and height stand out visually while blending with the environment, reflecting the beauty of the local bird species and their habitats.

Visitor Interaction
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The design includes strategically placed hiding places to allow for quiet observation of wildlife. This encourages visitors to engage with nature in a thoughtful way. The layout promotes circular movement throughout the site, inviting exploration and deepening the connection to the ecosystem. Design features ensure that visitors can appreciate nature while minimizing their impact, leading to a better understanding of local biodiversity.

Environmental Integration
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The project follows important ecological principles by considering factors such as microclimate management and solar protection. Metal supports contribute to the structure's stability while allowing the floating platform to function effectively. Each design element works together to ensure that the architecture respects and enhances the surrounding landscape, encouraging responsible interaction with the natural world.

The result is a careful balance of form and function. The design integrates smoothly with the natural landscape, creating a place where people can appreciate both architecture and nature in harmony.

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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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