Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Pink Columns and Metallic Mesh in a Desert Observation Space

Author:
François Arnawout
Pink Columns and Metallic Mesh in a Desert Observation Space

Project in-detail

The integration of pink columns and a metallic mesh tent reflects the cultural heritage and natural ecology of the wetlands, offering an elevated observation space that connects visitors with the surrounding desert landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique pink columns symbolize the local flamingo population.
02
A long white ramp guides visitors to the observation area.
03
The design features a large metallic mesh tent with Arabic patterns.
04
Strategically positioned for a 360-degree view of the wetlands.
05
Height of 12 meters enhances the connection to the surrounding landscape.

The Still Tower at Al Wathba Wetland Reserve serves as a significant observation point that allows visitors to connect with the surrounding landscape. Situated in a desert environment known for its diverse wildlife, the tower emphasizes both ecological awareness and cultural ties. Its design draws inspiration from the flamingo, a key feature of the wetlands, creating a cohesive experience that merges architecture with nature.

Architectural Elements

A long white ramp leads visitors into the three levels of the tower. This ramp acts as a gentle introduction to the space, encouraging exploration. It creates a transition from the ground level to a higher vantage point. The ramp’s design contrasts with the natural terrain, reinforcing the relationship between the built structure and the environment.

Symbolic Columns

At the center of the tower are two pink columns, one standing straight and the other slightly bent. These columns represent the flamingo, adding a layer of meaning to the design. They provide structural support while also serving as a visual anchor. Their color and shape reflect the natural beauty of the wetlands, enhancing the project’s connection to the site.

Tented Structure

Surrounding the columns is a large metallic mesh tent featuring intricate patterns influenced by Arabic design. This tent allows natural light to enter while providing a protective covering. The interplay of light and shade inside creates a welcoming environment for visitors. The design ensures that views of the wetlands remain clear and unobstructed, inviting people to observe the landscape.

Elevated Experience

The tower rises to a height of 12 meters, providing a panoramic view of the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve. This height enriches the experience for visitors, allowing them to appreciate the area’s ecological diversity. The observation area is designed to frame the landscape, making the tower a part of the natural setting. Visitors can spend time enjoying the views, deepening their connection to the environment.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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