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Curved Design with Biodegradable Wood in Desert Lodges

Author:
Shaheen Tabatabaie
Curved Design with Biodegradable Wood in Desert Lodges
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The curved forms of the lodges, constructed from biodegradable plastic wood, blend seamlessly with the desert landscape while providing communal and private spaces for residents to engage with their natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved design reflects the natural contours of the desert dunes.
02
Biodegradable plastic wood is the primary construction material used.
03
Communal gathering space emphasizes social interaction among residents.
04
Interior spaces feature strategically placed Sky Lights for natural illumination.
05
Integration with the desert landscape enhances the overall aesthetic experience.

The Wind Curved Sand Lodges project is located in a quiet desert area, where vast stretches of sand, wind, and sky set an inspiring scene for design. The main idea is to connect the buildings with the landscape, creating spaces that encourage social interaction while still providing private areas for retreat. The approach balances practicality with a respect for the environment, enhancing the experience of those who occupy the lodges.

Design Concept

The overall design focuses on blending the lodges into the natural contours of the sand dunes. The shapes of the buildings mirror the flowing lines of the landscape. Communal areas, such as the Lake Dining Gathering Space, are carefully placed to promote gatherings and shared moments. This central space marks a point of interaction, fostering a sense of community among residents.

Functionality

Each area serves a distinct purpose, enhancing usability throughout the project. The Waiting Area serves as a gateway, facilitating smooth transitions between different spaces. Meanwhile, the Power House symbolizes essential support for the lodges. The careful arrangement of these functional zones ensures that every space has specific roles while contributing to a united architectural vision.

Materiality

The use of biodegradable plastic wood as the main construction material reflects a conscious choice towards sustainability. This decision aligns with current architectural trends that prioritize eco-friendly practices. The flexible wall panels made from this material adapt to the building’s flowing forms, allowing them to connect visually with the shifting dunes. Such material choices not only address environmental concerns but also influence the visual appeal of the structures.

Design Detail

Sky Lights play a significant role in the design, allowing natural light to flood the interior spaces. They create a strong connection between the residents and the expansive sky above. This feature enhances the experience of being present in the desert, where changing light from sunrise to sunset transforms the atmosphere. At night, residents can gaze at the stars, deepening their relationship with the surroundings.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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