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Panoramic Observatories That Foster Wildlife Engagement

Author:
Yen-chia Pan
Panoramic Observatories That Foster Wildlife Engagement

Project in-detail

With panoramic observatories designed for optimal wildlife viewing, the centre integrates educational facilities to foster engagement with natural habitats and promote conservation efforts.
5 key facts about this project
01
The observatories provide unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape and wildlife.
02
The building incorporates eco-friendly design principles to promote sustainability.
03
Interactive educational displays engage visitors in wildlife conservation efforts.
04
The layout minimizes ecological disruption while enhancing visitor interaction with nature.
05
Integration of natural light enhances the atmosphere and reduces energy consumption.

The Noah's Ark: Flamingo Visitor Centre is located in a landscape designed to support wildlife conservation and education. It serves as a sanctuary for flamingos while encouraging visitors to connect with nature. The design draws inspiration from the story of Noah's Ark, symbolizing hope and a renewed commitment to the environment while providing a useful space for public interaction and learning.

Key Features

The centre includes various architectural elements that enhance the visitor experience. The observatories, known as "The Wings" and "Shoulders of Giants," provide elevated views for watching wildlife, helping visitors engage with the surrounding ecosystem. The layout incorporates essential visitor facilities, such as reception areas, display spaces, training rooms, a café, a gift shop, and offices, all aimed at facilitating smooth movement throughout the centre.

Landscaping

Landscaping is an important aspect of the overall design. Roof top and terrace observatories are integrated to encourage visitors to immerse themselves in nature. This careful arrangement of spaces minimizes the impact on the environment while enhancing the visitor experience. The project aims to promote a connection with local wildlife without disrupting natural habitats.

Sustainability Features

Several sustainability features work toward reducing the environmental footprint of the centre. The design includes effective insulation and ventilation systems to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. Natural light is maximized through thoughtful sunlight penetration, which reduces the need for artificial lighting. Air circulation and cooling systems, along with energy-saving lighting and a water filtration and reuse system, highlight the commitment to ecological responsibility.

Architectural Detail

The structure emphasizes user experience through thoughtful design choices that focus on education and leisure. Special attention is given to observational areas, allowing for both wildlife viewing and quiet reflection. Natural light and well-organized spaces create an inviting atmosphere, encouraging visitors to appreciate the environment around them. The careful detailing in the construction enhances the overall experience, making each visit significant and engaging.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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