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Rammed Earth Structure Integrating Polycarbonate Facades for Ecological Education Facility

Author:
Afnan Almaflehi
Rammed Earth Structure Integrating Polycarbonate Facades for Ecological Education Facility

Project in-detail

Rammed earth walls combined with polycarbonate facades create a resilient and energy-efficient educational facility, designed to immerse visitors in the ecological diversity of Abu Dhabi while promoting awareness and conservation of local wildlife.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth construction provides superior thermal mass and energy efficiency.
02
Polycarbonate facades enhance natural lighting while maintaining temperature control.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes structural stability and aesthetic integration.
04
Local medicinal plants are incorporated in landscaping for educational purposes.
05
Interactive dome simulates the habitat and behavior of local flamingo species.
The Flamingo Visitor Center, located in the ecological reserve of Abu Dhabi, serves as an educational hub designed to enhance understanding of the region's diverse wildlife and habitat. This architectural project is carefully integrated into its natural surroundings, reflecting a commitment to sustainability while providing visitors with interactive experiences focused on local flora and fauna. The visitor center stands as a vital component in promoting conservation efforts and environmental awareness.

The design emphasizes functional spaces such as exhibit areas, educational zones, and visitor amenities while maintaining a seamless flow between different areas. The entrance is strategically oriented to guide visitors into the heart of the center, fostering an intuitive navigation experience. Key features include a dedicated herb shop showcasing indigenous medicinal plants, an interactive bird display area, and a dome that offers virtual experiences related to flamingo life. This organization of spaces ensures that the visitor center functions effectively as both a public gathering area and a site for environmental education.

Unique Design Approaches

The Flamingo Visitor Center distinguishes itself through its unique design approaches that prioritize both environmental integration and visitor engagement. The use of organic forms in the building’s structure draws inspiration from natural landscapes, employing a fluid design that enhances aesthetic appeal while reducing visual disruption. Additionally, the architecture utilizes a combination of rammed earth walls and polycarbonate curtainwalls, providing thermal efficiency and abundant natural light. This juxtaposition of materials exemplifies a balanced approach to sustainability by ensuring that the building maintains comfort while minimizing energy consumption.

Innovative strategies such as shading systems and thermal massing play a critical role in mitigating solar heat gain, which is crucial in a hot climate. The choice to implement a low-maintenance design not only reduces operational costs but also emphasizes the center’s ongoing commitment to ecological principles. These architectural decisions facilitate an engaging and educational environment while promoting the message of conservation to visitors.

Engagement with the Environment

The architectural design of the Flamingo Visitor Center reflects a strong engagement with its surrounding environment. The layout optimizes the use of natural resources, such as sunlight and prevailing winds, to enhance energy efficiency. Landscape integration is another critical aspect, as local plant species have been incorporated into the exterior design to minimize water consumption and promote biodiversity.

These design choices contribute to a holistic approach that encourages visitors to form a deeper connection with nature. The center invites individuals to experience the regional ecosystem firsthand, fostering a sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation. The architectural plans, sections, and designs of the Flamingo Visitor Center embody this ideology, emphasizing the importance of architecture in promoting ecological sustainability.

For further exploration of the project, details regarding architectural plans, sections, and designs offer a deeper understanding of the innovative ideas and technical considerations that make the Flamingo Visitor Center a notable architectural achievement.
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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
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