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Wooden Fins and Prefabricated Core in a Wetland Observation Centre

Authors:
Shrikant Kutwal, Tejaswini Math, Ajinkya Dhumal, Ashish Rohmetra
Wooden Fins and Prefabricated Core in a Wetland Observation Centre

Project in-detail

With its distinctive wooden fins and prefabricated central core, the observation centre offers a sustainable platform for visitors to engage with the rich biodiversity of the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Wooden fins provide natural shading and minimize wildlife disturbance.
02
Prefabricated central core reduces on-site construction time and ecological impact.
03
Precast concrete upstands support the boardwalk and limit ground disruption.
04
Ground-level access ensures inclusivity for all visitors.
05
Design incorporates passive ventilation for energy efficiency.

The Flamingo Observation Centre is located within the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, designed to facilitate observation and appreciation of the diverse birdlife inhabiting the region. The design responds to the surrounding natural landscape, placing a strong emphasis on harmony and sustainability. Through its clear form and thoughtful integration of materials, the centre serves as a space for visitors to engage with nature.

Structural Framework

The observation centre features a strong structural framework made of metal framing. This choice ensures durability while allowing flexibility to adapt to varying climate conditions. The prefabricated central core is the heart of the building, providing vertical access between different levels and making it easy for visitors to move around.



Material Usage

Wooden fins are an important part of the design, serving both as visual elements and functional screens. These fins allow natural light to enter while maintaining privacy and reducing impacts on local wildlife. This feature enhances the building’s energy efficiency and provides passive ventilation, supporting a comfortable atmosphere indoors.



Foundation and Accessibility

The boardwalk is supported by precast concrete upstands, which minimize any disturbance to the ground. These components are created off-site and installed to fit with the foundation of the central core. Accessibility has been carefully considered, with ground-level access to the boardwalk enabling all visitors, including those with disabilities, to enjoy the experience without navigating complex routes.



Inside, wooden flooring enhances the natural feel of the observation spaces. This material choice adds warmth and supports visitor comfort. The design pays attention to every detail, contributing to an inviting atmosphere that encourages exploration and a deeper appreciation for the unique ecological landscape of the wetland reserve.

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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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