Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

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

Organic Form Enhanced by Modular Steel and Concrete Integration in a Wildlife Observation Structure

Authors:
Eddy Slim, Juan Carlos Gonzalez
Organic Form Enhanced by Modular Steel and Concrete Integration in a Wildlife Observation Structure

Project in-detail

Crafted with a parametric design that marries modular steel and concrete, the structure offers dynamic viewing platforms for observing wildlife in its natural habitat.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a parametric form that optimizes visitor interaction with the natural landscape.
02
A ramp and stairs provide multiple access points, ensuring inclusive use for all visitors.
03
The structure utilizes a modular approach, allowing for efficient construction and adaptability.
04
Cables and columns form a lightweight support system, enhancing the tower's visual integration into the environment.
05
Community involvement is encouraged through landscaping initiatives that promote ecological stewardship.
The Flamingo Observation Tower in Abu Dhabi is an architectural project designed to provide an elevated vantage point for observing the diverse wildlife inhabiting the region’s wetlands. By synthesizing aesthetics and functionality, this structure serves as both an observation point and a public engagement platform, encouraging interaction with the surrounding natural environment.

The project represents a blend of ecological awareness and architectural innovation. Its design draws inspiration from the forms of flamingos, paralleling their elegant silhouette within its structural language. The tower integrates seamlessly into the landscape, enhancing the user experience through thoughtful accessibility features. The ramp, designed at a width of two meters for accommodating individuals with disabilities, ascends to an observation height of ten meters, while stairs allow visitors to reach an elevation of twelve meters. Such features emphasize inclusive design, ensuring all visitors can engage with the environmental context comfortably.

Unique Design Approaches

The Flamingo Observation Tower employs a parametric design methodology that results in a form responsive to both environmental and functional requirements. This design technique facilitates the creation of an organic structure that minimizes its ecological footprint while maximizing visitor interaction with views of wildlife. The structure’s five distinct points, which vary in height, contribute to its dynamic profile while ensuring structural integrity through a network of columns and tension cables.

Sustainability is core to the design ethos of the project. Materials such as concrete and steel are utilized strategically, with concrete forming a sturdy foundation and steel creating a lightweight framework. The design also incorporates wood for aesthetic elements and possible landscaping features, aligning with the natural materials of the surrounding habitat. This careful selection of materials reinforces both the sustainability goals and the visual coherence with the environment.

User Experience and Interaction

The tower's design encourages interaction with the natural landscape, promoting engagement through features like boardwalks that connect visitors with the water's edge. These pathways ensure accessibility while reducing ecological disturbances in sensitive areas. Furthermore, the community engagement aspect is pronounced; visitors are invited to participate in plantings, fostering a sense of stewardship and connection to the project.

The architectural plans and sections illustrate the innovative use of space and material, offering further insights into the design intricacies. Review these elements to explore how the Flamingo Observation Tower presents a compelling case study in contemporary architecture that balances user experience with environmental integrity.
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 17,249 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