Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Laminated Timber Supports Elevate Viewing Experience in Wetland Observation Tower

Author:
Yuji Tanabe
Laminated Timber Supports Elevate Viewing Experience in Wetland Observation Tower

Project in-detail

With its slanted laminated timber legs gracefully mimicking the movements of flamingos, the observation tower seamlessly integrates into the wetlands, providing an elevated platform for visitors to engage with the surrounding wildlife.
5 key facts about this project
01
The observation tower’s structure imitates the elegant stance of flamingos, creating a visual connection with its avian surroundings.
02
Each of the slanted timber supports varies in height, enhancing the dynamic aesthetic and maximizing viewing potential across different elevations.
03
Louvered handrails provide protection from sun and wind while maintaining unobstructed sightlines for wildlife observation.
04
The inclusive design features ramps and gradual inclines, ensuring accessibility for all visitors in a natural setting.
05
Strategically placed viewing areas and resting spots foster an intimate connection with the wetland ecosystem.
The "Dancing Legs" Flamingo Observation Tower, situated within the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, exemplifies an architecture project designed with a deep understanding of the environment and its inhabitants. This structure serves as both an observation point for visitors and a tribute to the natural beauty of flamingos in their habitat. The design reflects an innovative approach to architectural functionality while maintaining a seamless connection with nature, enhancing the visitor experience in a sensitive ecological context.

The central theme of the design draws inspiration directly from the physical characteristics and movements of flamingos, which are renowned for their elegant posture and social behavior. The structure's design mirrors these aspects through its unique form, comprising a series of slanted wooden leg-like supports that visually evoke the image of these birds in motion. This organic shape does not merely represent a creative vision; it also supports the overall stability and functionality of the observation tower.

Functionally, the tower offers visitors an elevated platform from which to observe the rich avian life within the wetlands. Its various heights, designed to accommodate different viewing experiences, illustrate an architectural intention to optimize interaction with the environment. The highest points provide panoramic views while lower levels create a more intimate atmosphere for birdwatching. The layered configuration of the legs allows visitors to circulate throughout the structure unobtrusively, enhancing accessibility.

A crucial characteristic of the observation tower is its thoughtful material selection, which prioritizes sustainability and visual harmony with the surroundings. Laminated timber, chosen for its strength and aesthetic quality, forms the primary structural element. The use of galvanized steel plates for connections ensures durability while allowing for a streamlined appearance that resonates with the organic lines of the tower. The structure's handrails, designed with louvered elements, not only add to the visual appeal but also serve functional purposes like reducing glare from the sun and protection from wind.

The design incorporates an inclusive approach, emphasizing accessibility for all visitors. Ramps and gradual inclines are carefully integrated into the overall design, ensuring that wheelchair users and others with mobility issues can experience the observation points without barriers. This focus on inclusivity enriches the type of experiences offered, making nature observation accessible to a wider demographic.

Another noteworthy aspect of this architectural project is how it fosters educational opportunities. Specially designated viewing areas are incorporated into the design, providing educational elements for visitors to learn more about flamingos and their habitat. Benches and resting spots intermingle with the structure’s legs, inviting guests to pause and immerse themselves in their surroundings while promoting a sense of community and connection with nature.

The "Dancing Legs" Flamingo Observation Tower stands out due to its innovative architectural concepts and respectful relationship with the landscape. By using design to enhance the visitor experience and promote engagement with the wetland ecosystem, this project serves as a pivotal component of the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve. It encourages the appreciation of nature and wildlife, transforming the observation of flamingos from a mere visual experience into a comprehensive journey through which visitors can learn and interact meaningfully.

For those interested in a deeper exploration of this architecture project, it is recommended to review architectural plans, sections, and design details that illustrate the thought process and creativity behind this structure. Engaging with these aspects will provide further insights into the project’s unique architectural ideas and its functional design elements.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy