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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Desert Living Spaces

Authors:
Fateme Balkis, Tasneem Elmandouh, Lilian Mahmoud
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Desert Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design seamlessly integrates sustainable materials with a layout that fosters community engagement, providing resilient lodging in a challenging desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural ventilation.
04
Includes integrated water management systems tailored for arid climates.
05
Arrangements promote both privacy and community interaction among residents.
The Mega Dunes Ecologdes project in Al Yafra, Abu Dhabi, embodies a contemporary approach to sustainable architecture within a desert context. This project focuses on creating comfortable living environments that harmonize with the arid landscape while prioritizing ecological responsibility. At its core, the design aims to facilitate communal living through well-planned spatial arrangements while respecting the local climate and natural features.

The project consists of a Common Hub and multiple lodges, structured to foster both community interaction and individual privacy. Each lodge is engineered to endure the harsh desert conditions, ensuring that residents can engage with their surroundings without compromising comfort.

Unique Architectural Design Approaches

One of the distinguishing features of the Mega Dunes Ecologdes is its emphasis on natural climate control. The design incorporates extensive operable windows for enhanced cross-ventilation, utilizing the prevailing winds to cool indoor spaces effectively. This approach minimizes reliance on mechanical cooling systems, aligning with sustainable practices. The incorporation of double-glazed glass further helps in thermal insulation, facilitating a stable indoor climate despite exterior temperature variations.

Another notable aspect is the use of Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) as a primary structural material. This choice not only reduces the building's carbon footprint but also offers design flexibility and natural aesthetic qualities. The integration of fabric shading elements significantly contributes to energy efficiency, allowing natural light while minimizing solar heat gain. This attention to materiality reflects a commitment to innovative solutions that serve both function and sustainability.

Innovative Community-Centric Design

The project's layout is deliberate, featuring a centralized Common Hub that serves as a gathering point. Covering 250 m², this space is designed for communal activities, enhancing social interactions among residents. The adjoining lodges vary in size—80 m² for VIP accommodations and 50 m² for typical lodges—each tailored to meet diverse needs. This flexibility allows for a range of inhabitants, from families to individuals seeking solitude, making the community adaptable and inclusive.

Water management systems are integrated into the project design, focusing on sustainability by efficiently capturing and recycling water. This aspect is particularly crucial in desert environments where water scarcity is a significant concern.

Overall, the Mega Dunes Ecologdes project offers an insightful perspective on modern desert living, combining innovative architectural ideas with sustainable practices. The thoughtful integration of materials and community-oriented designs showcases how architecture can adapt to its environment while meeting the needs of its residents.

For further exploration of this architectural endeavor, interested readers are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas presented in the project documentation to gain a comprehensive understanding of its intricacies and functionalities.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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