5 key facts about this project
The Flamingo Nature Retreats project is located within the Abu Dhabi Wetland Reserve, establishing a connection between people and local wildlife. The design focuses on education and tourism, aiming to support the conservation of flamingos and their habitat. It offers a way for visitors to understand and appreciate the importance of staying in harmony with nature.
Flexibility is a key aspect of the retreat. It features hexagonal modules that can be rearranged to serve different purposes. These spaces can host educational programs about bird conservation while also providing areas for relaxation. The larger hexagonal modules are designed to function as training spaces, while observation platforms extend outward to give visitors a closer look at flamingos in their natural surroundings.
The design responds effectively to the local environment. One notable feature is the interconnected hexagonal platforms, which allow visitors to engage directly with wildlife. Additionally, a waterwheel mechanism is activated by changes in the tide, allowing the bird-watching platform to move closer to the main building. This responsiveness ties the architecture closely to the natural processes of the wetland.
Aquatic plants are integrated into the retreat's design, supporting the local ecosystem. These plants provide food for fish, which in turn sustain migratory birds. This approach creates a balanced environment, emphasizing the importance of ecology in architecture and design.
Indoor areas use 25mm compressed cork board along with various layers such as a seal layer, fiber layer, and windproof layer. Reed blinds are incorporated to offer shade while maintaining connections to the surroundings. The outdoor structures are supported by wooden footings, which help minimize disruption to the wetland's natural substrate.
Large observation areas allow visitors to take in views of the abundant wildlife. This connection between architecture and nature enhances the experience for those visiting the Flamingo Nature Retreats, fostering engagement with and appreciation for the environment.