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Compressed Earth and Shotcrete Oasis in the Desert Landscape

Authors:
Mathias Juul Frost, Yana Ostapchuk
Compressed Earth and Shotcrete Oasis in the Desert Landscape
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Constructed from compressed earth and shotcrete, the hub integrates smoothly into the desert landscape, providing essential communal spaces for dining and socializing while promoting sustainability and local engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with compressed earth, enhancing thermal mass and local resource use.
02
Incorporates shotcrete, allowing flexible shaping and integration with the landscape.
03
Features a water collection system that captures moisture through condensation.
04
Utilizes natural ventilation strategies to enhance air quality and comfort.
05
Design includes hiking paths that promote engagement with the surrounding environment.

Azure Hub is designed with careful consideration for its desert surroundings. Located among rolling dunes, the structure serves multiple functions, providing spaces for community interaction and essential services. The overall design concept is centered on two key components: "Adamant by Nature" and "Movement Along Nature." These elements work together to foster a connection between the built environment and the natural landscape that surrounds it.

Architectural Framework
The foundation of Azure Hub features a strict geometric design that organizes its essential spaces. This layout creates a safe environment while maintaining a sense of openness. The combination of rigid and soft forms encourages movement throughout the site, allowing visitors to engage with the dunes. Key areas such as dining rooms and lounges are thoughtfully arranged to promote social interaction, enhancing the overall experience.

Spatial Organization
Within the hub, public and private functions are clearly defined. The design includes a dining space that can accommodate up to 60 people, a reception area, kitchen facilities, a bar and cafe, and outdoor waiting spaces for 15 individuals. This careful arrangement guides users through the hub, leading them from lively community areas to quiet spots for relaxation. Changes in elevation throughout the design add visual interest and contribute to comfort.

Natural Integration
Hiking paths connect the hub to its natural environment, allowing visitors to explore the desert before reaching the lodges. This design encourages a sense of discovery, inviting patrons to engage with the landscape. The lounge serves as an important gathering point, providing a welcoming environment for those arriving by foot or camel. It highlights the significance of interaction within the overall visitor experience.

Sustainability and Ventilation
The design includes effective natural ventilation strategies, such as strategically positioned openings that create a chimney effect. This setup allows fresh air to enter from lower levels while letting warm air escape from the top. The Water Seer, a water collection system, also plays a role in sustainability, capturing moisture through condensation to support both human and animal needs around the site.

Compressed earth building material and shotcrete are featured in the construction of Azure Hub, reinforcing its commitment to eco-friendliness. The soft geometries and integrated formwork create visual harmony with the landscape, ensuring that the structure blends well into its desert surroundings. This attention to detail results in a design that respects the environment while serving its users effectively.

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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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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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