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Weaving Nature with Date Palms in a Towering Habitat Observation Space

Author:
Atiya Anisa
Weaving Nature with Date Palms in a Towering Habitat Observation Space

Project in-detail

Constructed from locally sourced date palms and employing traditional Khoos weaving techniques, the observation tower provides an elevated experience for visitors to engage with the diverse habitats of Al Wathba Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using local date palms, the tower emphasizes sustainable material use.
02
The design incorporates traditional Khoos weaving techniques, connecting to local craftsmanship.
03
Vertical scaffoldings create dynamic viewing experiences as visitors ascend.
04
Strategically placed openings enhance views of the diverse bird habitats.
05
The minimalist design fosters an unobtrusive integration with the natural landscape.

"The Horizon" is located in Al Wathba Reserve, Abu Dhabi, and aims to enhance how visitors experience the local environment, particularly the flamingos. The design features a prominent tower, built firmly into the ground, with a series of scaffoldings that create varied experiences as people ascend. Visitors are encouraged to connect with the natural landscape while navigating through the structure.

Cultural Heritage
The design showcases the rich cultural background of the United Arab Emirates. It draws on the relationship between the local people and their environment, reflecting traditions that have been passed down through generations. The use of the date palm, which is significant in Emirati culture, inspires various aspects of the design. The Khoos weaving technique—a traditional method used to create functional and decorative items—has heavily influenced the tower's aesthetics and structure.

Materiality
Careful consideration is given to material choices in "The Horizon." The project makes use of locally sourced materials, including date palms and reeds. These choices contribute to sustainability and help create a connection between the structure and the landscape. Using materials that are familiar to the area enhances both the beauty and functionality of the tower, grounding it within its natural context.

User Experience
The layout of the tower promotes ease of movement for visitors. As they move through the structure, they find it encourages exploration and engagement with the surrounding sights. The design varies the density of its woven patterns. Denser areas at the base of the tower provide stability, while lighter, more open sections higher up offer expansive views of the reserve. This progression encourages visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of the environment around them and reinforces the design's purpose.

Every element of "The Horizon" is thoughtfully crafted. The intricate weaving pattern enhances the building’s structure and serves as a tribute to local craftsmanship. This connection to cultural heritage offers a visual experience that reflects the spirit of the region. The final design detail stands as a testament to the balance between functionality and artistic expression.

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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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