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Sustainable Timber Observation Tower Enhancing Wetland Ecology

Authors:
Irene Alonso, Martin Burs, Kirsten Gulau
Sustainable Timber Observation Tower Enhancing Wetland Ecology

Project in-detail

Constructed from sustainable timber and concrete, the observation tower enhances the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve's biodiversity while providing an educational space for visitors to engage with the local ecosystem.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using sustainable timber for wall panels and boardwalks.
02
Features a modular design reducing environmental impact during installation.
03
Integrates educational displays about local flora and fauna throughout the space.
04
Offers distinct experiences focused on water, air, and soil ecosystems.
05
Includes an Observation Tower that enhances views of flamingos and wildlife.

The Flamingo Elements project is located in the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve in Abu Dhabi. It aims to immerse visitors in the region's unique ecosystem from the viewpoint of the Greater flamingo. The design features three main experiences: water, air, and soil. By using a modular approach, the development reduces its environmental impact while enhancing awareness of nature.

Architecture Concept

The overall idea focuses on integrating natural elements into the visitor experience. Each section—water, air, and soil—highlights important aspects of the wetland’s ecosystem. The structure uses standardized prefabricated modules, which simplify construction and minimize disturbance to the surrounding area. This approach respects the delicate balance that characterizes the wetland.



Material Selection

Materials chosen for the project support its connection to the environment. Sustainable timber is used for the boardwalk panels, helping the structure blend with its surroundings. The inner framework is constructed from concrete, which provides strength and durability while keeping a low profile within the natural habitat.



Observation Tower

A significant element is the Observation Tower, which directs visitors through the various experiences tied to the local ecosystem. This tower allows for engaging views and includes educational features that inform visitors about the specific plants and animals found in the reserve. The connection between the flamingo and the elemental theme of fire adds depth to the narrative presented through the design.



Design Detail

The Flamingo - Fire Tower offers a functional space with shaded areas for resting and platforms for observing wildlife. This design encourages visitors to engage more closely with the wetland environment and strengthens the focus on environmental education and conservation practices, inviting an appreciation of its biodiversity.

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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
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