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Biomass Materials and Natural Ventilation in a Curvilinear Desert Lodge Community

Authors:
Mabin Mathew, Selvakumaran Kuttisamy
Biomass Materials and Natural Ventilation in a Curvilinear Desert Lodge Community

Project in-detail

Harnessing local biomass materials and incorporating innovative natural ventilation, the design creates a harmonious community of curvilinear lodges that thrive amid the desert’s challenges.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes date palm biomass for sustainable building materials, showcasing local ecological practices.
02
Features a serpentine layout that maximizes natural light and airflow throughout the community.
03
Incorporates solar photovoltaic panels as both energy sources and shading devices to enhance comfort.
04
Employs innovative contrarotating wind turbines for ambient lighting and energy generation along pathways.
05
Designed with significant attention to cross-ventilation, ensuring thermal comfort in the desert climate.
The architecture of "Spectrum in the Desert" represents an important exploration of design principles that harmonize with the natural environment. This project seeks to create an inviting habitat within a desert context, emphasizing both aesthetic appeal and functionality. The design integrates various elements that reflect the local environment while fostering a sense of community among its inhabitants.

This architectural project features a carefully considered layout comprising several lodging units, a communal hub, and sustainable energy systems. Each of these components plays a vital role in the overall mission of the design. The lodges are arranged in a fashion that mimics the curve of a rainbow, creating an organic flow that enhances the guest experience. The project brings together standard and VIP lodging units, allowing for both intimacy and spaciousness, depending on the requirements of the visitors.

The Common Hub serves as the social heart of the development, designed to facilitate interaction among guests and provide a venue for various community activities. Generous glazing and open terraces are incorporated into this structure, maximizing the connection between indoor spaces and the outside environment. This approach not only brings natural light into the hub but also allows occupants to enjoy the surrounding landscape while participating in social events or relaxing.

From a materiality perspective, "Spectrum in the Desert" employs a thoughtful selection of resources that champions local sustainability. The project utilizes date palm biomass and particle board, materials that are derived from local agriculture. This choice not only respects the local ecosystem but also pays homage to cultural elements of the area. Additionally, the use of steel screw piles for the foundation reflects an intention to minimize environmental disruption, ensuring that the structures can adapt to the characteristics of the desert floor.

One of the unique aspects of this architectural design is its integration of renewable energy solutions. Solar photovoltaic panels are incorporated throughout the development, serving dual roles as energy collectors and shading devices. This feature not only enhances the buildings' energy efficiency but also contributes to the overall aesthetic while mitigating heat absorption. Moreover, the installation of contrarotating wind turbines along pathways illustrates an innovative approach to harnessing natural resources. These turbines provide ambient lighting through LED systems, blending functionality with the natural experience.

The design intentionally addresses environmental conditions inherent to a desert setting, employing natural ventilation techniques that promote airflow within the lodging units. This strategy is critical in maintaining indoor comfort amid extreme temperatures. Sunlight analysis has informed the layout, ensuring that shading is optimized throughout the day without compromising the benefits of natural light.

In essence, "Spectrum in the Desert" stands as a testament to how thoughtful architectural design can foster not only shelter but also community engagement and environmental responsibility. The interplay of aesthetic understanding, functionality, and sustainability within the project speaks to a comprehensive design philosophy. For those interested in diving deeper into this project, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide a more thorough understanding of these innovative architectural ideas. Exploring the specifics of this project can reveal the intricate details and the carefully crafted thought processes behind its realization.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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