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Reed and Cork Structures Supporting Interactive Wildlife Observation

Authors:
Hiu Hei Lam, Yuet Ming Kwong
Reed and Cork Structures Supporting Interactive Wildlife Observation
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Constructed with interconnected hexagonal platforms of reed and cork, the retreat seamlessly integrates educational experiences with the observation of flamingos in their natural habitat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using flexible hexagonal modules for multifunctional use.
02
Incorporates a waterwheel that moves with changing tide levels.
03
Aquatic plants are integrated to support local fish and bird populations.
04
Reed blinds provide shade while maintaining views of the wetlands.
05
Wooden footings minimize ecological disruption in the wetland.

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.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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