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Corten Steel and Adobe Refuge Designed for Desert Sustainability

Author:
Luiz felipe Silveira
Corten Steel and Adobe Refuge Designed for Desert Sustainability

Project in-detail

Crafted from locally sourced adobe and weathered Corten steel, this sustainable desert refuge invites inhabitants to immerse themselves in nature while promoting environmental responsibility through innovative water management and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed to maximize natural ventilation through strategic placement of openings and courtyards.
02
Incorporates a biogester system for effective waste management and resource recovery.
03
Utilizes locally sourced adobe and weathered Corten steel to blend with the desert landscape.
04
Features extensive shaded areas to reduce heat gain and enhance outdoor living spaces.
05
Designed with specific sightlines for observing native wildlife, fostering an appreciation of the ecosystem.
The architectural project titled "From Dust" emerges as an insightful exploration of how modern design can harmonize with the intricacies of a desert environment. This project is not merely an endeavor to erect a physical structure but represents a commitment to creating a sustainable living space that fosters a unique connection between its users and the surrounding natural landscape. By drawing inspiration from the local geography, "From Dust" transcends conventional architecture, embodying the essence of its environment in both form and function.

At its core, this project serves as a refuge, strategically located to provide its inhabitants with an immersive experience of the desert's vastness and beauty. The design utilizes a series of adobe walls, Corten steel panels, and earth-colored finishes to integrate seamlessly into the sandy terrain. The architecture leverages local materials and sustainable technologies, highlighting the philosophy that modern living can coexist thoughtfully with nature. The incorporation of photovoltaic panels and advanced water management systems emphasizes a clear intention to leverage renewable resources and minimize environmental impact, addressing vital concerns in regions where resources are scarce.

The layout reveals a masterful interplay of volumetric forms characterized by both straight and curved lines, mimicking the soft undulations of sand dunes. This fluidity creates not just an aesthetic quality but also practical advantages, facilitating natural airflow and maximizing daylight within the interiors. Designed with an emphasis on communal experience, the Common Hub stands out as a pivotal space within the project. Featuring extensive openings to the north, this area encourages social gatherings while allowing occupants to engage with the unique wildlife of the desert. The design provides ample viewing opportunities for observing native species, such as the Arabian Oryx, thereby fostering a deeper appreciation for the local ecosystem.

The thoughtful arrangement of indoor and outdoor spaces is evident, allowing occupants to move freely between the sanctuary of the built environment and the untouched landscape beyond. Sand-colored earth walls help regulate temperature, enhancing comfort while reducing energy consumption. The water reservoirs and biogester systems are cleverly integrated into the architecture, providing essential services while promoting sustainable practices. This careful consideration of every detail marks a distinctive approach to architecture, merging functionality with ecological sensibility.

What makes "From Dust" particularly noteworthy is its ability to translate architectural ideas into tangible experiences that resonate with users. The project exemplifies how architecture can reflect cultural significance while providing a durable living space tailored to the demands of its climatic context. Each aspect of the design, from material selection to spatial organization, reveals a narrative that embraces both heritage and modernity.

As readers seek a deeper understanding of this unique project, exploring the accompanying architectural plans and sections will illuminate the innovation behind the design further. Through analyzing the architectural drawings and visualizations, one can appreciate the carefully considered layout and the implications of the design decisions made throughout the project's development. This is an invitation to delve into the intricate details that characterize "From Dust" and to witness how the architectural vision translates into a compelling narrative on harmony, sustainability, and modern living in a desert context. The essence of this project lies in its ability to convey a profound message about living in unity with nature, and it invites a closer examination of how architecture can inspire and nurture.
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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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