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Flowing Curvilinear Forms Enhanced by a Transparent Curtain Wall in a Biodiversity Reserve

Authors:
Rawan Shanan, Yamamh Alessa, Razan Masri, Jaffer Khan
Flowing Curvilinear Forms Enhanced by a Transparent Curtain Wall in a Biodiversity Reserve

Project in-detail

Curvilinear forms, inspired by the graceful movements of flamingos and supported by a transparent curtain wall, create a fluid visitor experience that emphasizes engagement with the surrounding biodiversity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear design inspired by flamingo movements.
02
Large terrace provides panoramic views of the reserve.
03
Transparent curtain wall reflecting the natural environment.
04
Integrated ramp for seamless visitor circulation.
05
Focuses on promoting ecological awareness and education.

The Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center is located within a rich ecological reserve designed to deepen the connection between visitors and local wildlife. The structure draws inspiration from the graceful shapes of flamingos, featuring smooth and flowing lines that create a sense of movement. This design encourages exploration, allowing visitors to engage with their surroundings in a relaxed and enjoyable manner.

Architecture Concept

The building’s design uses parametric principles, which allow for the creative manipulation of geometric shapes. This results in a flowing relationship between the building and the elevated plaza surrounding it. A large terrace is a central feature, providing sweeping views of the landscape, which enhances the overall visitor experience and highlights the natural beauty of the environment.



Circulation and Accessibility

Careful attention has been paid to circulation throughout the space, making it easy for visitors to navigate the different areas. A ramp connects the various parts of the center, ensuring that everyone can access the facilities. The main elevation includes a large opening that invites views of the surrounding landscape, enriching the visitors' connection to the ecology outside.



Material and Structural Systems

The visitor center features a curtain wall system that reflects the exterior environment within the interior spaces. This design choice not only enhances visual appeal but also supports the goal of sustainability. The structure incorporates concrete along with a space steel framework, creating wide, open areas free of columns. This design allows for flexibility in how the space can be used.



Environmental Integration

The roof's flowing design plays a crucial role in air circulation within the building. This feature helps to regulate temperature and improve comfort for occupants. Large openings built into the roof allow for ample natural light to enter the space, brightening the interior while maintaining a connection to the outdoor landscape through visible views of the reserve.

The focus on ecological consideration and visitor engagement is clear throughout the design, demonstrating how thoughtful architecture can encourage appreciation for nature while fulfilling practical needs. The layout invites visitors to explore and enjoy the environment.

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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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