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Curvilinear Lodges Crafted with Renewable Materials Emphasizing Desert Sustainability

Authors:
Kiril Georgiev, DETELINA BAKALOVA
Curvilinear Lodges Crafted with Renewable Materials Emphasizing Desert Sustainability

Project in-detail

Curvilinear forms crafted from sustainable timber and designed for optimal energy efficiency redefine lodging in the arid landscape of Abu Dhabi, creating a unique retreat that emphasizes ecological harmony and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear forms reflect the natural contours of the desert landscape.
02
Large windows optimize natural light while providing expansive views.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Community hub encourages social interaction and educational activities.
05
Integrated solar panels minimize energy consumption and reliance on non-renewable resources.

The Mega Dunes Ecolodges project is situated in the deserts of Abu Dhabi, focusing on sustainable architectural practices that harmonize with the surrounding landscape. The design comprises a series of lodges that integrate seamlessly into their environment, emphasizing ecological sensitivity while catering to the needs of residents and visitors. Each unit serves multiple functions, ranging from private accommodations to community spaces designed for interaction and engagement with nature.

The overall architecture is characterized by organic shapes that reflect the natural dunes, with spatial arrangements fostering a sense of comfort and connection to the desert. The design promotes energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact, aligning with contemporary trends in eco-friendly architecture. Each lodge utilizes materials chosen for their sustainability, durability, and compatibility with local conditions.

Unique Design Approaches

The Mega Dunes Ecolodges implement a curvilinear architectural style that distinguishes it from conventional lodges. These rounded forms provide not only an aesthetically pleasing exterior but also enhance the structural performance against strong desert winds. Large windows made of energy-efficient glass maximize natural light and offer unobstructed views of the surrounding environment, reinforcing the connection between indoors and outdoors.

The use of renewable energy sources is another critical aspect of the project's design. Solar panels are integrated into the roof structures, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and reducing reliance on non-renewable energy. The selection of materials such as steel, wood, and concrete reflects a balance between modern construction techniques and local availability, ensuring each element serves both functional and aesthetic purposes.

Architectural Features

The lodges feature open floor plans that encourage communal living while also providing retreat-like privacy where necessary. The common hub acts as a central gathering space, designed for events and community activities, further supporting social interaction. Landscaping is carefully considered to preserve existing flora and fauna, contributing to the overall ecological integrity of the site.

Each lodge integrates technologically advanced systems for natural ventilation and thermal comfort, enhancing the living experience while lowering energy consumption. These architectural designs exemplify a forward-thinking approach to residential architecture in a desert context, combining functionality, sustainability, and local cultural patterns.

Explore the Mega Dunes Ecolodges project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of the architectural plans and sections that illustrate the design’s innovative ideas and concepts. This exploration will provide deeper insights into the overall architectural vision and the unique elements that set this project apart.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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