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Curtain-Encased Encounters With Oryx in Fabric-Wrapped Desert Oasis

Authors:
Farbod Yamani, Saman Macvand
Curtain-Encased Encounters With Oryx in Fabric-Wrapped Desert Oasis

Project in-detail

Wrapped in fabric and supported by a concrete and wooden structure, the design fosters intimate interactions between humans and wildlife within a desert oasis, serving as a unique resort and feeding area for oryx.
5 key facts about this project
01
Wrapped in tent fabric, the structure mimics traditional Arabian tents while providing modern comfort.
02
The design incorporates curtains to minimize sunlight and wind exposure, enhancing energy efficiency.
03
An observation area on the roofs allows guests to view the night sky directly from their accommodations.
04
The north courtyard extends into an oasis, creating a dedicated feeding zone for oryx.
05
Wooden columns support a concrete slab, blending durability with a traditional aesthetic.

The Oryx Caravanserai is an architectural venture located in a desert area, positioned between an oasis and various activity spaces. Designed for both oryx and human interaction, the project aims to create a setting where both can coexist. The conceptual framework draws from traditional Arabian living, merging communal and private spaces to suit the needs of users while respecting the surrounding natural environment.

Design Concept

The design prioritizes the integration of living spaces and natural habitats. The layout is divided into two main sections. The northern half focuses on preserving oryx habitats, while the southern part is geared toward resort functionalities. This thoughtful division allows visitors to engage with nature effectively and creates a balance between human activities and wildlife.

Spatial Organization

A significant aspect of the design is its emphasis on privacy and comfort. Inspired by the traditional form of Arabian tents, the arrangement of spaces fosters an intimate atmosphere. The thoughtful organization of living areas creates a sense of enclosure, enhancing the experience for visitors. Each space is carefully planned to connect inhabitants with the nearby environment, blurring the lines between inside and outside.

Climate Adaptation

The design also considers the challenges posed by the harsh desert climate. A façade system with curtains is included to protect indoor spaces from strong sunlight and winds. This feature reduces the need for mechanical cooling and contributes to a more comfortable living environment. On the roofs, observation areas provide visitors with views of the night sky, connecting them with the greater surroundings.

Functional Integration

Furthermore, the design promotes interaction between visitors and oryx, especially through a courtyard that extends into the oasis. This area serves as a feeding zone, allowing for close encounters between wildlife and guests. By facilitating these interactions, the project highlights the significance of experiencing the local ecosystem and blends ecological awareness with user engagement.

The materials used include a concrete slab structure supported by wooden columns, creating a strong yet inviting form. The exterior is wrapped in tent-like fabric, combining elements of traditional design with contemporary ideas.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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