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Rammed Earth and Natural Ventilation Creating a Sustainable Education Hub in a Wetland Reserve

Authors:
Gilles Willem, Tim Belaen, Justine Byltiauw
Rammed Earth and Natural Ventilation Creating a Sustainable Education Hub in a Wetland Reserve

Project in-detail

Utilizing rammed earth construction and natural ventilation techniques, the center serves as a sustainable educational facility that enhances visitor engagement with the biodiversity of the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth for enhanced thermal performance and minimal environmental impact.
02
Incorporates natural ventilation strategies for passive cooling throughout the building.
03
Features a design that reflects local Emirati architecture while promoting ecological awareness.
04
Located adjacent to the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, fostering direct interaction with wildlife.
05
Includes educational spaces specifically designed for community engagement and research initiatives.
The Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center exemplifies a modern architectural approach that prioritizes ecological integration and user engagement. Nestled within the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, this facility serves as an educational resource, facilitating interaction between visitors and the natural environment, particularly focused on the region's avian population. The project is designed to foster awareness and appreciation of the wetland's ecological significance while providing a functional space for education and observation.

Sustainable Materials and Energy Efficiency

The architectural design employs rammed earth as its primary material, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and local resources. This choice not only contributes to the building's thermal performance, enhancing energy efficiency, but also emphasizes a connection to the surrounding landscape. The thermal mass of the rammed earth walls mitigates indoor temperature fluctuations, decreasing reliance on energy-intensive cooling systems. In addition, the project integrates passive cooling strategies through natural ventilation, optimizing indoor air quality and comfort. The use of concrete core activation allows for ambient temperature control, effectively supporting the facility’s intended role as a year-round visitor center.

User-Centric Design and Community Engagement

The Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center is characterized by its thoughtful spatial arrangement and user-focused design. The interior layout promotes fluid movement, guiding visitors through educational exhibits and observation decks that enhance their engagement with the environment. Engagement with the local community is a significant aspect of the project, as it fosters a sense of ownership and connection to the ecological site. Traditional Emirati architectural elements are incorporated into the design, creating a dialogue between cultural heritage and contemporary aesthetics.

The building's unique geometric form disrupts conventional visitor center designs, allowing for an organic integration with the natural topography. By adopting a design that resonates with both the ecological and cultural narratives of the region, the visitor center serves more than a functional purpose; it aims to deepen the understanding of the wetlands and promote conservation efforts.

In summary, the Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center illustrates a considered architectural approach that integrates sustainable practices with educational objectives. To gain deeper insights into the project's architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, explore the full presentation of this noteworthy 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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