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Flowing Shell Structures in Sustainable Steel and Glass for Elevated Bird Observation

Authors:
Mitra Ghasemi, Hamed Zanjani
Flowing Shell Structures in Sustainable Steel and Glass for Elevated Bird Observation

Project in-detail

Flowing shell forms constructed from eco-friendly steel and accentuated by expansive glass façades grace the wetlands of Abu Dhabi, creating an immersive observation tower for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates flowing shell structures that mimic the movement of flamingos.
02
A central core of lightweight steel enhances structural efficiency while facilitating vertical movement.
03
Expansive glass façades maximize natural light and create seamless connections with the surrounding landscape.
04
Seating areas are strategically placed to encourage engagement with wildlife and the environment.
05
Sustainable materials, including compact turf flooring and natural wood elements, reinforce the project's ecological focus.
The Dancing Flamingo Tower is an architectural project located in Abu Dhabi that elegantly integrates observation capabilities with an artistic expression inspired by the graceful form of flamingos. This design serves as a multifunctional observation platform, enriching the experience for visitors seeking to engage with these birds in their natural habitat. By embracing the essence of flamingos, the architecture reflects a delicate balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal, inviting exploration and interaction.

The primary function of the Dancing Flamingo Tower is to provide an immersive observation experience. Visitors are offered multiple vantage points that allow for a panoramic view of the surrounding wetlands where flamingos thrive. The architectural design features several horizontal slabs that connect to create distinct viewing platforms at varying elevations. This arrangement not only facilitates a range of perspectives but also encourages guests to traverse the structure, enhancing their connection to the natural environment.

Central to the design is a core structure that houses an elevator and staircase, wrapped in shell-like forms that evoke imagery of the flamingos. These forms do more than just provide structural support; they also enhance the experience of moving through the tower. As guests ascend, they encounter a thoughtful interplay of light and shadow, fostering a sensory connection with the surrounding landscape. The design approach emphasizes fluidity and movement, mirroring the social dynamics of flamingo flocks and creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the structure.

Key components of the Dancing Flamingo Tower include its innovative seating areas distributed across the viewing platforms. These areas invite visitors to pause and appreciate the sights and sounds of nature while also promoting comfort and leisure in an otherwise active site. The use of materials further enhances the project’s connection to its surroundings. Concrete provides a solid foundation, ensuring durability, while expansive glass façades allow for maximum natural light and continuous visual engagement with the wetlands. Steel supports the shell structures, allowing for the creation of complex, flowing forms without excessive weight, while wooden elements contribute warmth and a tactile quality that harmonizes with the natural setting.

The choice of compact turf for the flooring in certain areas is a conscious decision to echo the natural landscape, making the visitor experience feel grounded and intimate. Weaving willow is incorporated into the design as a natural fencing option, linking traditional craftsmanship with contemporary architectural approaches. These material choices further underline the project's commitment to blending architecture with environment, reflecting the ecological considerations integral to the design ethos.

What sets the Dancing Flamingo Tower apart is its unique design philosophy that situates architecture within the context of nature. Rather than separating the built environment from the ecological one, this project embraces and enhances the natural landscape, creating a space that encourages both human enjoyment and environmental appreciation. The innovative structural forms and thoughtful spatial configurations invite visitors to engage with the architecture as an extension of the natural world.

Readers interested in exploring the intricacies of this project are encouraged to delve into the architectural plans, sections, and designs that reveal further insights and the underlying ideas guiding this unique observation tower. The Dancing Flamingo Tower not only exemplifies a contemporary architectural response to environmental context but also serves as a poignant reminder of the beauty found in the integration of design and nature.
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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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