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Spiral Observation Tower with Steel Columns and Natural Buffers

Authors:
Liqi Yang, Rui Guo
Spiral Observation Tower with Steel Columns and Natural Buffers
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Integrating spiral observation trails with steel columns and natural buffers, the design enhances visitor interaction with the diverse ecosystems of the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates two spiral trails within a central observation tower.
02
Features ramps for wheelchair accessibility throughout the structure.
03
Includes educational boards that highlight local ecology.
04
Utilizes tall reeds as natural buffers for key habitat protection.
05
Design inspired by the migration patterns of flamingos.

The third trail at Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is designed to enhance visitor experiences within its unique ecological setting. The project promotes engagement with diverse habitats through thoughtful architecture that focuses on observation and interaction. An observation tower is at the heart of the design, providing expansive views that allow visitors to connect with the surrounding environment in a meaningful way.

Observation Tower
- The observation tower features two spiral trails that interweave and meet at the top, offering varied perspectives of the wetland. This design supports both detailed examinations and wider views, catering to different visitor needs. Ramps ensure wheelchair access, with rest areas positioned at intervals to improve comfort as individuals ascend.

Interaction with Water Levels
- The design takes into account the relationship between water levels and the landscape. During high water periods, interconnected lakes can form, while low water levels in the summer can threaten the ecosystem. The project engages with these changing conditions, making visitors aware of the dynamic nature of the wetland throughout different seasons.

Boardwalk and Ecosystems
- A boardwalk extends from the observation tower, connecting visitors to various ecosystems and serving as a pathway for exploration. This pathway allows for close encounters with various environments, transitioning from desert to wetland. It enhances the educational experience, putting visitors in direct contact with the flora and fauna present in the reserve.

Natural Buffers and Habitat Zones
- Tall reeds act as natural buffers that protect key habitats from human activities. These areas, where land meets water, provide essential living spaces for resident and migratory bird species, offering crucial food resources. The circular boardwalk also includes native plant species, which further educate visitors about the local ecology.

The combination of these design elements creates a visitor experience that supports interaction with the natural landscape while emphasizing the importance of ecological awareness within the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve.

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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

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