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Winged Structure With ETFE Canopy Overlooking Wetlands

Author:
Maria alejandra Rojas jaramillo
Winged Structure With ETFE Canopy Overlooking Wetlands

Project in-detail

A winged structure with a canopy of ETFE cushions creates an engaging interplay of light and shadow, seamlessly connecting multifunctional spaces with expansive views of the surrounding wetlands.
5 key facts about this project
01
Three concentric rings create a distinct winged silhouette.
02
ETFE cushions provide dynamic daylight management.
03
Central curved staircase serves as a visual and functional focal point.
04
Open layout features targeted enclosed spaces for versatility.
05
Orientation towards wetlands enhances natural integration.

The Flamingo Center is an architectural design located near wetlands, focusing on the concept of movement inspired by the mating dance of the flamingo. Functioning as a space for training, offices, and public gatherings, the design incorporates natural elements into a structured form. Three concentric rings of differing heights and widths create a visual flow, connecting the building with its environment.

Structural Configuration

The building features a layered arrangement of three concentric rings. The inner ring is the tallest and narrowest, while the middle ring provides structural support and stability. The outer ring is wider, forming a solid base for the entire structure. This configuration allows for an engaging architectural profile while ensuring functionality.

Interior Layout

Inside the Flamingo Center, the design emphasizes openness, encouraging interaction among occupants. Skylights are included throughout the space, allowing natural light to wash over the interiors. Although there are a few enclosed areas, such as training rooms, kitchen facilities, and restrooms, these spaces do not take away from the overall sense of connectedness. The layout promotes versatility and collaboration among users.

Circulation and Features

A central curved staircase acts as a key feature within the building. It facilitates movement between the two floors and creates a focal point in the design. There is also the option for a glass elevator, which enhances accessibility for everyone who visits. This thoughtful approach to circulation supports ease of use in the space.

Environmental Interaction

The design carefully considers its surroundings by facing the wetlands. A coffee space on the second floor connects to a terrace that offers expansive views of the landscape. This increases the interaction between the building's interior and the natural world outside. The roof utilizes inflatable ETFE cushions that help in managing daylight and improve the energy efficiency of the structure. This attention to environmental factors creates a more comfortable atmosphere for all users.

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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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