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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

Project in-detail

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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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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