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Crescent-Shaped Lodging Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber Panels with Atmospheric Water Harvesting

Authors:
Ayman Emaira, Alia Amer, Basel Aboubakr, Rana Khaled
Crescent-Shaped Lodging Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber Panels with Atmospheric Water Harvesting

Project in-detail

Crafted from locally sourced date palm timber and designed with a graceful crescent form, the lodging seamlessly blends with the desert landscape while employing innovative moisture capture and solar energy systems for an immersive retreat experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted entirely from locally sourced date palm timber, enhancing sustainability and supporting local economies.
02
Features a crescent-shaped design that mimics natural sand dunes for aesthetic integration and wind resistance.
03
Incorporates atmospheric water generators that extract moisture from the air, ensuring self-sufficient water supply.
04
Utilizes passive cooling systems with natural airflow strategies to maintain comfortable interior temperatures without mechanical cooling.
05
Integrates solar panels into the design, providing renewable energy and reducing reliance on external power sources.
The project "Sparkling Dunes" is an architectural endeavor located in the unique desert landscape of the United Arab Emirates. It represents the fusion of contemporary design with sustainable practices, seamlessly integrating with the natural environment while providing a luxurious lodging experience for visitors. The architecture embodies a philosophy that emphasizes ecological sensitivity, where the aesthetics of the structure harmonize with the arid surroundings, responding intelligently to the climatic challenges of the region.

At its core, the project serves as a retreat that invites guests to explore the beauty of the desert while ensuring minimal disruption to the ecosystem. The design encompasses a series of lodge units that are inspired by the shapes of natural sand dunes, optimizing their orientation to harness prevailing winds and maximize thermal comfort. Through innovative form-making and the use of curvilinear shapes, the architecture encapsulates a sense of fluidity and connection to the landscape, encouraging an immersive experience for its occupants.

The functional aspects of the project are carefully articulated through a modular assembly of units, each varying in size from 50 square meters to 80 square meters. The unique crescent form of the lodges not only provides an aesthetic continuity with the surrounding dunes but also enhances the structural stability against desert winds. Each lodge features a circular floor plan that allows for ample natural light and ventilation, creating inviting living spaces that foster a connection to the outdoors. The design incorporates large openings framed with tempered glass, blurring the boundaries between the interior and the expansive desert vistas.

Sustainability is a key tenet of this architectural project, with a focus on utilizing local materials to reduce the carbon footprint. The primary construction is based on date palm timber, which is sourced locally, minimizing transportation impacts while supporting regional economies. Additionally, the use of sand within the walls serves as an insulating material, effectively reducing heat gain and enhancing overall energy efficiency. Solar panels integrated into the design ensure that the lodges can generate their own power, making the project self-sufficient in energy terms.

The project's water management system further underscores its commitment to sustainability, featuring atmospheric water generators that extract moisture from the air and provide potable water for the occupants. This innovative approach is complemented by the inclusion of composting toilets, which not only conserve water but also facilitate waste treatment in an efficient and eco-friendly manner. The thoughtful integration of these systems exemplifies how architecture can adapt to environmental conditions, promoting sustainability without compromising comfort.

Unique design approaches such as the use of wind catchers emphasize passive cooling strategies in the architecture. These elements harness natural breezes to regulate indoor temperatures, significantly reducing the need for mechanical air conditioning in a climate characterized by extreme temperatures. The dome-like shape of each unit plays a crucial role in this passive cooling strategy, as it allows for the efficient circulation of air throughout the space, enhancing comfort for the occupants.

The overall design reflects a biophilic approach, creating spaces that reinforce a connection to nature. Interior elements are intentionally selected to provide a warm, inviting atmosphere, utilizing natural finishes and textures to enhance the sensory experience. The lodges are designed not merely as places to stay but as immersive environments that encourage guests to engage with the desert landscape.

The architectural presentation of "Sparkling Dunes" reveals a thoughtful exploration of place, sustainability, and human experience within the desert context. For those interested in architectural plans and sections, reviewing the comprehensive design documents will provide further insights into the intricacies of this project. Delving into the architectural designs and ideas encapsulated in "Sparkling Dunes" offers deeper understanding of how this endeavor stands as a testament to modern architectural practices that respect both the environment and the well-being of its users. It is encouraged to explore the project presentation for additional details and nuances not covered in this analysis.
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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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