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Biomimetic Design Utilizing Mycelium Bricks and Coral for Sustainable Desert Living

Biomimetic Design Utilizing Mycelium Bricks and Coral for Sustainable Desert Living
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Utilizing mycelium bricks and coral reef materials, the design integrates biomimetic principles to enhance moisture management in a desert setting, creating a sustainable living environment for multiple families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes mycelium bricks for lightweight construction and thermal efficiency.
02
Incorporates coral materials for enhanced aesthetics and sustainable sourcing.
03
Features a dual-layered blind system inspired by camel anatomy for adaptability in light and privacy.
04
Integrates indoor farming systems leveraging evaporation for climate control.
05
Designed with community living in mind, accommodating multiple families within a cohesive layout.

### Overview

The Camar-esil House is situated in a desert environment, designed to integrate modern living with ecological sustainability and cultural heritage. The project draws inspiration from the natural resilience seen in local wildlife, particularly the camel, to inform its architectural strategies and material choices. Through the application of innovative design methods, it addresses the unique challenges posed by its arid location, resulting in a functional residence that reflects a commitment to environmental and cultural contexts.

### Material Selection and Sustainable Practices

The material palette of the Camar-esil House emphasizes sustainability and local sourcing. Mycelium bricks, characterized by their lightweight and water-resistant properties, significantly reduce carbon emissions during production. Local Sidr wood offers a high strength-to-weight ratio, minimizing transportation impacts. Additionally, sustainably extracted coral reef bricks enhance the aesthetic while ensuring environmental responsibility. Concrete and reinforced slabs provide necessary structural support, while burlap, paired with glass panels, fosters moisture management and natural light penetration.

Sustainable energy solutions are integral to the design, featuring photovoltaic solar panels that enable off-grid functionality. Natural ventilation strategies, including chimney systems and strategically placed openings, optimize air circulation for thermal comfort without relying on mechanical cooling.

### Spatial Configuration and Cultural Integration

The spatial organization of the Camar-esil House comprises multiple interconnected levels, designed to facilitate privacy and space utilization for multiple families, thereby encouraging communal living. The incorporation of indoor plant systems leverages evaporation techniques to enhance air quality and indoor climate control.

Culturally, the design incorporates architectural motifs linked to local traditions, such as patterned mycelium bricks and ornamental features that resonate with the surrounding environment. Furthermore, innovative cooling strategies, including the "Camel Nose Technique," utilize glass prisms to capture and redistribute moisture from ambient air, highlighting a nuanced understanding of the desert climate. The dual-layered blinds enhance privacy while allowing for adaptive light control, maintaining both comfort and connection to the landscape.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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