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Petal-Formed Structure with Local Materials Addressing Sustainability in Community Engagement

Author:
Tanja Maier
Petal-Formed Structure with Local Materials Addressing Sustainability in Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Crafted from local materials with a distinctive petal form, the center enhances environmental awareness and community interaction while serving as an educational resource within a desert wetland.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes date palm leaf layers for natural roofing and ventilation.
02
Incorporates a petal-shaped design that enhances ecological integration.
03
Features a ground-level layout for improved accessibility and visitor experience.
04
Employs local materials including aluminum and sustainable wood to minimize environmental impact.
05
Includes large, strategically placed windows for optimal natural lighting and landscape visibility.
The Flamingo Visitor Center is an architectural project designed to serve as an educational and service hub within a desert landscape. Located near the AL Wathba Wetland Reserve, this visitor center aims to enhance public appreciation of local ecosystems, specifically the habitats of flamingos and other wildlife. The architecture emphasizes a relationship between built and natural environments, promoting sustainability while accommodating diverse visitor needs.

The structure consists of three interconnected sections, each designed to house specific functions. The first section includes the reception area and gift shop, providing visitors with information about the wetlands and the services available. The second section features an exhibition space for educational displays, while the third houses a café with outdoor seating, facilitating community engagement in nature. This layout ensures a fluid visitor experience, with open spaces that maximize interaction and accessibility.

Unique Architectural Approaches

One of the most distinctive aspects of the Flamingo Visitor Center is its organic form, inspired by natural flora. The structure features three petal-like projections, which not only enhance aesthetic appeal but also promote natural ventilation. The use of large windows allows for significant daylighting, creating a seamless visual connection between interior spaces and the surrounding landscape.

Material selection is another critical aspect of this project. Local, sustainable materials, such as aluminum profiles for the façade and date palm leaf layers for roofing, are employed to minimize environmental impact. The incorporation of a wooden grid structural shell not only supports the aesthetic design but also plays a functional role in environmental control within the building.

Functionality and Visitor Experience

The layout of the Flamingo Visitor Center is strategically planned to facilitate ease of movement and engagement for all visitors. The ground-level design ensures accessibility, making it navigable for individuals of all abilities. A flexible approach to interior spaces allows for diverse programming, accommodating educational workshops and community events.

The architectural design prioritizes ecological awareness, promoting education about conservation and sustainability. By integrating visual elements that emphasize the relationship between architecture and the natural environment, the center serves as a model for future projects aimed at environmental stewardship.

For those interested in further exploring the architectural details of the Flamingo Visitor Center, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, a comprehensive presentation is available that delves into the intricate elements of this thoughtful project.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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