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Chipped Panels and Natural Textiles in a Flexible Desert Retreat

Chipped Panels and Natural Textiles in a Flexible Desert Retreat
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Chipped panels of wood and patterned textiles define a versatile retreat in the desert, designed for community engagement and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Chipped panels enhance the building’s thermal performance while complementing the desert landscape.
02
Natural textiles with floral motifs create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural ventilation and light entry.
04
Locally sourced materials reduce the carbon footprint and support regional economy.
05
Flexible spatial arrangements allow for diverse communal activities and personal retreats.

## Overview
Located in the Arabian desert, KHAIMA is a contemporary architectural project designed to reflect the region's cultural traditions while addressing modern residential and communal needs. Inspired by traditional tent structures, the design integrates adaptability and sustainability as core principles. It aims to serve as a refuge within an unpredictable landscape, fostering social interactions and economic opportunities in its community.

## Material Selection
The material palette for KHAIMA showcases a commitment to both ecological sustainability and aesthetic appeal. Key materials include wood for its warmth and connection to nature, chipped panels that echo the desert landscape while offering innovative functional design, and fabric coverings that introduce floral motifs, enhancing the transition between indoor and outdoor environments. Extensive use of glass facilitates natural light penetration, promoting transparency and visual continuity between occupants and their surroundings. These materials collectively establish a bridge between the built environment and the natural landscape.

## Spatial Configuration
KHAIMA's spatial organization features flexible areas designed for multiple functions, accommodating social gatherings, quiet retreats, or collaborative activities. This layout promotes fluid movement between public and private spaces, encouraging communal engagement. The strategic orientation and large window openings frame panoramic views of the desert, enhancing occupant interaction with the landscape while maximizing natural ventilation and daylight access. The architectural design demonstrates innovative solutions that harmonize luxury with functionality, utilizing intricate ceiling details, illuminated wall applications, and a variety of flooring materials to create a cohesive interior environment.

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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.

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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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