Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Serpentine Structure with Mechanized Screens Overlooking Wetlands

Author:
Aditi Vyas
Serpentine Structure with Mechanized Screens Overlooking Wetlands

Project in-detail

The serpentine form, wrapped around a cuboidal structure and enhanced by mechanized screens, creates a unique visitor center that invites reflection and interaction within the wetlands of Al-Wathba.
5 key facts about this project
01
The center is oriented to maximize views of the surrounding wetlands.
02
The design incorporates a dual form approach with cuboidal and serpentine shapes.
03
Mechanized wooden screens regulate natural light throughout the interior.
04
A viewing gallery provides an elevated perspective of the wetland ecosystem.
05
The layout directs visitor flow towards immersive nature interaction.

Alpaviram is a visitor center situated in the wetlands of Al-Wathba. The center serves as a connection between the urban setting and the calm of nature. The design focuses on the idea of pause, allowing visitors to reflect and recharge. Positioned as both a destination and a threshold, it invites people to experience the wetlands before returning to city life.

Design Concept

The building features two distinct forms: a cuboidal linear bar aligned with the north-south axis and a serpentine structure that gently wraps around it. This combination of shapes creates a visual contrast that enriches the experience. The straight lines of the cuboidal form clash with the soft curves of the serpentine shape. This interplay reflects an understanding of how to balance different elements within the natural landscape.

Spatial Organization

Inside, the layout is purposefully arranged to enhance visitor interaction with the environment. Important areas, such as the reception, waiting room, gift shop, and exhibit spaces, are located at the southern ends of each section. Such a design guides visitors toward the wetlands, strengthening their connection to the natural surroundings.

Material Use

The cuboidal section is made with a metal and glass framework, which is complemented by mechanized wooden screens. These screens help filter light, creating a warm atmosphere inside. The choice of materials adds to the building's overall aesthetic while serving important functions. Together, they contribute to the comfort and experience of visitors.

Architectural Details

One notable feature is the ramp that rises toward a viewing gallery. This space offers wide views of the wetlands. It also directs visitors naturally as they move through the building. The shifting light and shadows enhance the experience, making it easier for visitors to connect with the landscape outside. The design encourages not just observation but also engagement with the environment.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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