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Wooden Harmony in a Desert Landscape Emphasizing Ecology and Visitor Connection

Author:
Federico Spatzner
Wooden Harmony in a Desert Landscape Emphasizing Ecology and Visitor Connection

Project in-detail

Inspired by the natural contours of the desert landscape, the visitor center utilizes wood to create a harmonious space that fosters ecological understanding and encourages engagement with the diverse habitats of the Al Wathba reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built to reflect the natural contours of the desert landscape.
02
Utilizes wood for minimal ecological impact in construction.
03
Includes a prominent promenade for visitor interaction.
04
Strategically positioned windows optimize views of the surroundings.
05
Focuses on ecological education through immersive experiences.

The Visitor Center at the Al Wathba Natural Reserve is positioned in a distinctive ecological area known for its rich biodiversity and seasonal appearance of flamingos. The design seeks to enhance the experience for visitors while promoting a deeper understanding of the environment. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding desert landscape, the center harmonizes with its natural setting. It aims to create a meaningful connection between people and nature.

Spatial Arrangement

The layout encourages visitors to explore the natural beauty of the reserve. The main entrance features a broad promenade that serves not only as access but also as a space for gathering. This design aspect invites visitors to connect with each other and the landscape before they begin their journey into the reserve.

Functional Areas

Inside, the center includes various spaces such as exhibition areas, classrooms, and meeting rooms. Each space is strategically designed to support smooth movement throughout the building. Large windows offer views of the reserve, allowing visitors to appreciate the diverse ecosystems surrounding them. This openness helps create an inviting atmosphere.

Material Choices

Materials used in the construction were thoughtfully selected to work well with the environment. Wood is specifically mentioned for its minimal ecological impact. This choice underscores a commitment to sustainability, reinforcing the center's role within the reserve rather than disrupting it.

Architectural Form

The design of the Visitor Center echoes the shapes of the desert landscape, creating a connection between the building and its surroundings. The flowing lines resemble the contours of sand dunes, establishing a visual link with the site. Strategic positioning enhances views for visitors, allowing them to take in the scenery and appreciate the natural beauty of the Al Wathba 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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