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Terraced Roof Inspired by Flamingo Wings Enhances Educational Space in Wetland Reserve

Author:
Alejandro Cardozo
Terraced Roof Inspired by Flamingo Wings Enhances Educational Space in Wetland Reserve

Project in-detail

Inspired by the elegant form of flamingo wings, the visitor center's terraced roof design and focus on natural ventilation promote environmental awareness while serving as an educational hub within the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the wings of flamingos, the roof design creates dynamic visual and spatial experiences.
02
The center prioritizes natural ventilation strategies to enhance indoor comfort and minimize energy use.
03
Terraced design promotes varied ceiling heights to encourage exploration of the interior spaces.
04
Educational areas are strategically placed to foster interaction with the surrounding wetland environment.
05
Large openings maximize natural light, minimizing the need for artificial illumination throughout the building.

The Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center is located in the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, UAE. It serves as an educational space for visitors, connecting people to the unique environment of the wetlands. The design draws inspiration from the flamingo, particularly its white wings. This concept guides the overall shape and feel of the visitor center. The architecture seeks to blend with the natural setting while providing practical spaces for learning and interaction.

Architectural Form

The building is shaped like an unfolded fan, resembling the wings of the flamingo. This form creates interesting spaces both inside and outside. The roof is terraced, which allows for different heights and shapes, encouraging exploration and movement. Visitors can experience the beauty of nature from various viewpoints within the structure.

Functional Layout

Inside, the layout includes an entrance, terrace, training areas, gift shop, toilets, and reception on the first floor. The second floor features a café, an elevator, and office space. This organization helps visitors navigate easily through the center. Each area is designed to enhance learning and engagement with the surrounding environment while providing essential services.

Natural Integration

Natural lighting and ventilation are important aspects of the design. Large windows and strategically placed openings allow sunlight to flood the interior, helping to reduce the need for artificial lighting. This makes the space feel bright and inviting. Additionally, natural cooling techniques help maintain a comfortable temperature inside, promoting a connection with the outdoor climate.

The design of the Abu Dhabi Flamingo Visitor Center reflects a commitment to education and environmental awareness. The building’s shape and features invite visitors to appreciate the beauty of the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve. The terraced roof and elegant form create a visual harmony between the structure and its natural surroundings.

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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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