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Spiral Structure Crafted from Stainless Steel and Wood in a Wetland Observation Tower

Authors:
Urtina Mehmeti, Valdete Bajrami
Spiral Structure Crafted from Stainless Steel and Wood in a Wetland Observation Tower

Project in-detail

The seamless integration of stainless steel and wood in a spiraled observation tower elevates the visitor experience while providing essential vantage points for viewing the diverse wildlife of the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
The observation tower features a spiraled structure that optimizes viewing angles across diverse habitats.
02
Modular construction methods enable efficient assembly and minimize environmental impact on the wetland.
03
Stainless steel and wood finishes are selected for durability and harmony with the surrounding ecosystem.
04
A unique lattice canopy design provides shade while allowing filtered natural light into viewing areas.
05
The tower enhances accessibility with gently sloping ramps for all visitors, promoting inclusivity.

### Project Overview

Located within the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, the Observation Tower serves as an architectural intervention that enhances visitor engagement with the unique ecosystem known for its diverse wildlife, notably its flamingo population. The design intent prioritizes both functional observation capabilities and a connection to the surrounding environment through fluid and organic forms.

### Spatial Strategy and User Accessibility

TheObservation Tower features a spiraled structure that promotes a continuous flow as visitors ascend, offering multiple vantage points of the landscape. Gradually sloping ramps are integrated into the design to ensure accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges, promoting inclusivity within the visitor experience. Each level has been strategically oriented to provide unobstructed 360-degree views, encouraging dynamic engagement with the natural setting.

### Materiality and Environmental Considerations

A selection of high-performance materials supports the design’s durability while emphasizing eco-friendliness. Stainless steel and aluminum have been chosen for their strength and corrosion resistance, suitable for the wetland environment. Sustainable wood is employed in specific structural elements, contributing to the organic aesthetic, while glass ensures safety and visibility. The incorporation of modular polymer panels serves both a decorative and functional purpose, offering shade and ventilation. Prefabricated components streamline construction, minimizing waste and reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainability.

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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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