Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Woven Palm Leaves and Elevated Views in a Wetland Observation Tower

Authors:
Mahdieh Nasiri, Zaker Eslamian
Woven Palm Leaves and Elevated Views in a Wetland Observation Tower
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Elevated above the wetlands, the observation tower constructed with woven palm leaves offers panoramic views of flamingos, promoting environmental engagement and accessibility in a sensitive ecological area.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated observation platform enhances bird-watching without disturbing the wetland ecosystem.
02
Constructed using locally sourced woven palm leaves for sustainability.
03
Accessibility features ensure inclusive visitor experience for all abilities.
04
Integrates a shaded courtyard for social interaction and gathering.
05
Periscope installation provides unique live observation of wildlife.

Pink Mirage is located at Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, aiming to connect visitors with the area’s unique ecosystem. Its main feature is the Bird Observation Tower, which provides an elevated view to watch flamingos in their natural habitat. The design is inspired by the qualities of a mirage, aiming to blend with the surrounding landscape and promote ecological awareness.

Accessibility and Visitor Experience

A key focus is on accessibility, ensuring all visitors can engage with the site. The integration of a ramp allows easy movement between different levels of the observation area. This thoughtful design promotes inclusivity, encouraging everyone to enjoy the experience. The observation platform has two main sections: one for watching and another for walking, effectively managing visitor flow and interaction.

Connection with the Environment

The design of the Bird Observation Tower elevates above the ground, reducing disruption to the wetland’s environment. This height allows visitors to see across the area without impacting the local wildlife. The design establishes a connection to nature and emphasizes the site’s ecological features, inviting an immersive experience.

Material Choices

Materials chosen for Pink Mirage emphasize sustainability and local sourcing. Woven Palm Leaves add a light and eco-friendly touch to the construction. The use of Pink Anodized Aluminum reinforces the structure while complementing the colors found in the landscape. Steel Wire Rope and Sandbags/Super Adobe also play a role in supporting the overall design and ensuring that it coexists with the environment.

The shaded courtyard at the base of the observation tower serves as a gathering space, allowing visitors to come together and enjoy their surroundings. This area not only encourages social interaction but also enhances the experience of observing the rich variety of life in the wetland. The design draws people in, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world and its importance.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 28 May 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
Rome 
Rain Rooms

Design rain rooms for Rome

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 May 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 28 May 2026
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 27 May 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy