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Latticework Canopies and Windcatchers Enhance Biodiversity Sanctuary

Author:
Chang yuan max Hsu
Latticework Canopies and Windcatchers Enhance Biodiversity Sanctuary

Project in-detail

Latticework canopies and strategically placed windcatchers create a climate-responsive environment that fosters biodiversity within the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, serving as a sanctuary for both visitors and wildlife.
5 key facts about this project
01
Latticework canopies mimic the forms of local wildlife, enhancing ecological integration.
02
Windcatchers facilitate natural ventilation, optimizing indoor comfort in a hot climate.
03
Hexagonal pathways promote accessibility and reflect traditional village layouts.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems contribute to sustainable irrigation practices for local flora.
05
Reflector pools enhance cooling and create inviting gathering spaces within the gardens.

Located in the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, the design emphasizes a connection between humans and nature. By creating spaces that serve both people and wildlife, it highlights ecological sustainability and cultural relevance. The concept focuses on integrating traditional practices with modern design elements, creating an environment that encourages interaction with the rich biodiversity of the wetlands.

Canopies drawing inspiration from the elegance of greater flamingos provide vital shelter and shade across the site. Their lattice structure allows sunlight to filter through, creating patterns of light and shadow. This interplay enriches the experience for visitors, who can enjoy the changing environment throughout the day. The canopies blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, encouraging a close relationship with nature.

Windcatchers are incorporated into the design to address the region's high temperatures. Positioned strategically, they facilitate natural airflow and help regulate indoor climates. These structures allow cool air to enter while enabling warm air to escape, ensuring comfort for those using the space. Reflective pools complement this by contributing to a cooler atmosphere, making the site a pleasant area for visitors.

The layout follows Arabic geometric patterns, utilizing hexagonal shapes to create a network of paths and nodes. This arrangement promotes easy movement throughout the site and evokes traditional village environments, making it feel welcoming. With multiple access points, guests are encouraged to explore various areas. The winding pathways invite wandering and engagement with the lush gardens.

Rainwater harvesting systems play a crucial role in the sustainable design. They capture rainwater for irrigation, demonstrating the commitment to environmental care. This approach ensures that the local plant life thrives while reducing water waste. By integrating these systems into the overall design, the architecture supports ecological balance and function.

Among the vibrant greenery, seating areas are placed thoughtfully to provide spots for rest and reflection. These spaces invite visitors to pause and absorb their surroundings. They serve as quiet retreats where one can connect with the environment and appreciate the diverse landscape within the wetland.

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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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