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Layered Observation Tower With Engineered Wood and Natural Airflow

Authors:
Luca Marulli, Daet Wasurushtakon
Layered Observation Tower With Engineered Wood and Natural Airflow

Project in-detail

Incorporating a layered structure and engineered wood, the tower provides unobstructed views of the Al Wathba natural reserve while promoting natural airflow, serving as a unique observation point in the desert landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates gaps in its layered structure for improved natural ventilation.
02
Utilizes engineered wood to enhance both aesthetics and strength.
03
Elliptical shape optimizes views and reduces solar exposure.
04
Designed as a multifunctional space for observation and engagement with nature.
05
Aligns with the natural terrain, reflecting the area's geological features.

The structure near Al Wathba natural reserve takes inspiration from the area’s fossil dunes, which have been shaped by wind and time. The design seeks to blend the built environment with the natural landscape, creating a space that serves both as an observation point and a reflection of the surrounding geology. The form is primarily elliptical, allowing for a flow of movement and a range of views that engage visitors with the desert scenery.

Design Approach

The elliptical shape of the building organizes space effectively and enhances accessibility. It allows users to experience different perspectives as they move through the structure. This approach minimizes direct sunlight during the hotter months, helping maintain a comfortable climate inside. The design prioritizes user interaction with the environment, making each viewpoint unique.

Layered Structure

Inspired by the stratification of the fossil dunes, the structure features multiple layers that serve various purposes. Each layer contributes to the building’s stability while integrating seating and circulation areas. This design is not only functional but also connects the architecture to the natural forms that surrounded it.

Material Selection

Engineered wood is a key material used in the construction. It is lightweight yet strong, allowing for an effective support system. The layered design utilizes the engineered wood to create a connected experience, where each part of the structure contributes to the whole. This material choice supports a thoughtful approach toward sustainability.

Environmental Integration

Gaps within the layers provide ventilation, allowing fresh air to circulate and avoiding excessive light inside. These openings also invite user interaction, accommodating activities such as birdwatching and photography. By encouraging exploration, the design fosters a relationship with the natural landscape, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

The observation area at the top presents expansive views of the Al Wathba landscape, reflecting the project’s aim to harmonize built forms with the surrounding natural elements.

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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

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