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Reed Panel Structures Elevating Habitat Connectivity in a Wetland Visitor Center

Authors:
Omar Al-hassawi, Hala Barakat
Reed Panel Structures Elevating Habitat Connectivity in a Wetland Visitor Center

Project in-detail

Elevated pathways and reed panel structures enhance habitat connectivity while serving as a visitor center that fosters understanding of the wetland ecosystem.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structures minimize environmental impact and preserve local habitats.
02
Ghaf tree growth is integrated into the grid layout for ecological preservation.
03
Reed panels enhance the building's thermal performance and connect with nature.
04
Downdraft cooling towers provide energy-efficient climate control throughout the center.
05
Circulation paths extend beyond the site, offering unique views of the wetland.

The Al Wathba Wetland Reserve Flamingo Visitor Center is located in a unique ecological area in the United Arab Emirates. It serves as a space for education and engagement regarding the importance of wetlands and their wildlife, particularly flamingos. The design focuses on integrating with the natural surroundings, using the Ghaf tree to highlight cultural and ecological themes. Buildings and pathways are raised to promote interaction with the landscape while ensuring minimal impact on the environment.

Design Concept

A grid layout forms the foundation for the visitor center, facilitating the growth of the Ghaf tree. This design choice supports both ecological preservation and cultural values associated with the tree. The overall concept emphasizes the relationship between architecture and nature, enhancing the visitor experience while reinforcing local heritage.



Structural Composition

Buildings and circulation paths are elevated, allowing for an unbroken natural landscape. This decision helps preserve habitats for various wildlife, including flamingos. The center features downdraft cooling towers for temperature control, putting sustainability at the forefront. By utilizing natural ventilation methods, the design aims to reduce energy consumption while keeping the space comfortable for visitors.



Material Integration

The selection of materials is key to the project’s connection with the environment. Reed blocks and panels serve as the envelope for both the information center and the seed bank, strengthening the relationship between the structures and their natural setting. Rammed earth walls create defined areas and offer a tactile response to the landscape. This choice also reflects local building traditions, acknowledging the area's architectural history.



Visitor Experience

The elevated circulation paths provide visitors with special views over the wetland. This design invites exploration and interaction with the ecosystem. Each element of the center is purposefully arranged to encourage learning and enjoyment of the natural surroundings. The thoughtful placement of functional spaces throughout promotes a deep appreciation for the wetland's ecological significance. The design ultimately emphasizes a commitment to environmental awareness, informed by cultural context and community engagement.

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

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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

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