Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Sculptural Roof Design Featuring Passive Cooling Through Natural Ventilation and Charred Wood Elements in an Environmental Education Hub

Author:
Edoardo Tadini
Sculptural Roof Design Featuring Passive Cooling Through Natural Ventilation and Charred Wood Elements in an Environmental Education Hub

Project in-detail

Charred wood shingles and a sculptural roof design harness natural ventilation to create an immersive educational experience at a visitor center within the Al Wathba Natural Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a natural aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels support the structural integrity and sustainability of the building.
03
The bent A-frame design facilitates passive cooling through enhanced airflow.
04
Native plant landscaping enriches local biodiversity and promotes ecological education.
05
Integrated terraces offer immersive views for visitors, linking them directly to the landscape.
The Oasis Raft Visitor Center is an architectural project located in the Al Wathba Natural Reserve, United Arab Emirates. This structure serves as a visitor hub designed to enhance the connection between visitors and the surrounding ecosystem. It reflects a commitment to environmental education and sustainable architecture, encouraging awareness of the reserve’s unique biodiversity.

Designed with an emphasis on fluidity and integration, the project embodies natural forms that resonate with the landscape. The twisting structure facilitates a flow that guides visitors through various educational and interactive spaces, promoting engagement with nature. The choice of materials and architectural elements reflects a desire to harmonize the building with its environment while prioritizing functionality and sustainability.

Design Integration and Environmental Harmony

A unique aspect of the Oasis Raft project is its organic architectural elements. The building’s exterior features smooth, flowing lines that mimic the natural contours found within the reserve. This design approach not only enhances aesthetic value but also minimizes visual disruption, allowing the structure to sit comfortably within its surroundings.

The roof is designed to promote passive cooling through its sculptural shape, enabling efficient air circulation. This feature reduces reliance on artificial cooling systems, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable design principles. Additionally, the incorporation of native plants into the landscape enhances local biodiversity while providing shade and improving microclimate conditions.

Interactive Spaces and Educational Facilities

The design of the visitor center includes various interactive spaces that serve educational purposes. Exhibition areas are strategically located to provide immersive experiences that highlight the ecological significance of the Al Wathba Natural Reserve. The project includes terraces that offer viewpoints for observing the surrounding landscape, encouraging outdoor interaction and learning.

The choice of materials contributes to both the building’s aesthetic and functional traits. Timber is utilized for structural elements, fostering a warm atmosphere and an appropriate connection to nature. Glass panels allow natural light to permeate the interior, reinforcing the relationship between the inside and the outside. The careful selection of paving stones ensures walkways resonate with the surrounding environment, further unifying the design.

The Oasis Raft Visitor Center exemplifies a thoughtful architectural approach that applies sustainable practices while fostering a deeper understanding of the environment. To explore the project's architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs in greater detail, consider visiting the project presentation for comprehensive insights into this innovative design.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16,979 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy