The Al Wathba Flamingo Visitor Center is located in the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, an area rich in biodiversity in Abu Dhabi. It functions as an educational facility and a point of connection to the unique ecosystems found in the region. The design focuses on transparency and a strong relationship with the natural landscape, allowing visitors to engage with the surrounding environment in meaningful ways.

Functionality and Spatial Organization

The ground floor is divided into key areas: an Information Centre, a Display Area, a Small Café, and a Training Room. This layout supports an organized visitor experience. A central reception area acts as both an entry and navigation point. The café and gift shop are positioned to provide pleasant views of the wetlands for visitors. Accessible restrooms cater to universal design needs.

Environmental Integration

Natural elements play an important role in the design. Openings in the walls, floors, and roofs allow for ventilation and help maintain a comfortable temperature inside. Trees are planted around the building, providing shade and forming habitats for local birds. This thoughtful approach promotes a deeper connection to the landscape and encourages visitors to interact with the natural surroundings.

Structural System and Aesthetics

The building’s structure is based on a steel plate that effectively carries loads, while a frame-wall design contributes to stability and ease of maintenance. Windows are aligned with this framework, maximizing views and ensuring ease of installation. The elevation design shows layered voids, enhancing both the appearance and flow of air through the building.

Visitor Engagement Spaces

Access to the second floor is via stairs, leading to elevated areas that provide wide views of the wetlands. This level includes a training room and a lookout fitted with binoculars for observing wildlife. The central exhibition space invites natural elements like sand and wind inside, giving visitors a tactile experience that connects them to the environment.

Attention to design details creates a sense of light and shadow within the spaces, offering a visual experience that shifts throughout the day. This dynamic quality highlights the beauty of the landscape surrounding the visitor center.