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Inflatable Observation Tower with Photovoltaic Integration in Wetland Habitat

Authors:
Christopher Doray, Yekta Tehrani, Nahal Jafari, Puya Khalili
Inflatable Observation Tower with Photovoltaic Integration in Wetland Habitat

Project in-detail

An inflatable observation tower equipped with photovoltaic cells rises from the wetland landscape, providing a discreet vantage point for visitors to study the local flamingo population while minimizing ecological disturbance.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inflatable structure minimizes environmental impact and allows for easy relocation.
02
Equipped with advanced nano-drones for aerial wildlife observation.
03
Discreet boardwalk design preserves the natural habitat along visitor paths.
04
Photovoltaic cells integrated into the structure enhance energy efficiency.
05
Semi-sunken form camouflages the tower within the wetland landscape.

The project located in the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve aims to create a thoughtful interaction between humans and the wildlife, especially flamingos. The observation tower serves as a focal point, designed to allow visitors to experience the ecosystem without causing disturbance. The concept prioritizes integration into the natural environment, promoting exploration while respecting the existing ecological dynamics.

Design Approach

The observation tower features a semi-sunken form that blends into the landscape of the wetland. This design reduces visibility and minimizes potential disruptions to wildlife behavior. By placing the structure in a way that conceals human presence, the design promotes a more respectful relationship between visitors and the natural world.

Accessibility and Interaction

Visitors reach the tower via a winding boardwalk that gracefully moves through the reed fields. This pathway enhances the experience by providing a way to explore the wetlands while remaining hidden from view. The thoughtful integration of the boardwalk with the surrounding landscape emphasizes a commitment to preserving the natural habitat and maintaining the ecological balance during human activities.

Technological Integration

The design incorporates modern observation technologies to promote non-intrusive engagement with wildlife. Ultra-slim periscopes equipped with nano-digital cameras allow for detailed visual observations. Additionally, nano-sized drones capture aerial footage of the flamingos in their natural habitat. These features enhance the educational opportunities available at the site, all while ensuring that wildlife is not disturbed.

Sustainable Considerations

To align with contemporary architectural practices, photovoltaic cells are integrated into the inflatable structure. This choice highlights the importance of sustainability and energy efficiency, reflecting a growing effort to harmonize built environments with nature.

In essence, the design creates a careful arrangement that reflects a commitment to the wildlife, providing an educational resource that fosters a deeper understanding of the unique ecosystem within the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve.

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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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