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Fluid S-Shape Structure with Interactive Shadow Play Elements

Author:
Shelley Livingston
Fluid S-Shape Structure with Interactive Shadow Play Elements
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The S-shaped design draws inspiration from the form of a flamingo, incorporating a modern mashrabiya screen that casts dynamic shadows while serving as a visitor center focused on education and wildlife observation.
5 key facts about this project
01
S-shaped plan mimics the curvature of a flamingo's neck.
02
Modern mashrabiya screen design reflects the legs of flamingos.
03
Dynamic shadow patterns enhance the visitor experience indoors.
04
Elevated “wing” creates an undulating floor slab for movement.
05
Integrates diverse functional spaces for educational and recreational use.

The Flamingo Visitor Center captures the essence of its natural surroundings while serving educational and recreational purposes. Located in an area that celebrates the beauty of wildlife, the center draws inspiration from the elegant form of the flamingo. The design aims to create an engaging environment for visitors, blending functionality with a connection to nature.

Design Concept
The visitor center is conceptually inspired by a deconstructed flamingo, featuring an S-shaped plan that mimics the graceful curve of the bird’s neck. This design establishes a strong thematic relationship between the building and its avian counterpart. The shape creates a dynamic interplay between space and form, inviting exploration and engagement.

Facade and Screen
The exterior incorporates a modern interpretation of the traditional mashrabiya screen, with intricate patterns that evoke the legs of flamingos. This design choice serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, providing visual interest while controlling light and privacy within the center. The shadows cast by the screen create a lively atmosphere, reminiscent of flamingos moving across their habitat.

Interior Spatial Organization
Inside the visitor center, the layout is designed to support a range of activities. Key spaces include administrative offices, an observation lounge, restrooms, a kitchen, a cafe, and a gift shop. This thoughtful arrangement facilitates easy movement and interaction, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

A notable feature is the elevated "wing," which rises to form an undulating floor slab. This architectural choice contributes to a sense of movement and flow within the space. The careful combination of design elements and functional areas ensures that visitors can transition gracefully through the various experiences offered by the center.

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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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