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Desert-Inspired Forms Enhanced by 3D Printed Elements and Natural Stone for a Cultural Museum

Author:
Marionne James
Desert-Inspired Forms Enhanced by 3D Printed Elements and Natural Stone for a Cultural Museum

Project in-detail

3D printed elements and naturally sourced stone merge with desert-inspired forms to create a cultural museum reflecting the rich heritage of AlUla.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D printing technology to create complex design elements.
02
Incorporates locally sourced natural stone to blend with the landscape.
03
Features a non-linear layout to enhance visitor engagement and exploration.
04
Integrates sustainable systems for natural ventilation and energy efficiency.
05
Emphasizes desert-inspired forms that mimic the surrounding topography.

# Analytical Report on the AlUla Anthology Museum

## Overview

The AlUla Anthology Museum is located in AlUla, a region in northwestern Saudi Arabia renowned for its rich natural and cultural heritage. This museum aims to reflect the area's historical significance and geological features through its architectural design. The project integrates harmoniously with the surrounding desert landscape, characterized by dramatic rock formations and ancient archaeological sites.

## Spatial Arrangement and Experience

The design of the museum prioritizes an exploratory experience, encouraging visitors to engage with the narrative of AlUla’s history. The layout is inspired by the region's natural topography, presenting a non-linear path that resembles a "dune." Each gallery serves as a distinct chapter in an overarching storyline, allowing visitors to traverse through curated installations that highlight the rich heritage of the area. The interplay of light and space within the structure enriches this immersive experience, fostering a sense of connection between the building and its environmental context.

## Materiality and Sustainability

In selecting materials for the museum, care has been taken to enhance its link to the local landscape. Concrete forms the structural backbone, enabling flowing forms that resonate with the desert topography, while large glass sections maximize natural light, creating inviting interior environments. Locally sourced natural stone grounds the building in its site, promoting a sense of permanence. The integration of innovative 3D printing techniques allows for complex design elements that align with the architectural vision.

Sustainability is a fundamental aspect of the museum's design. An energy-efficient air conditioning system optimizes natural ventilation, reducing energy consumption while enhancing thermal comfort. The building's orientation and local material use further emphasize its ecological responsibility. Incorporating renewable energy sources signifies a commitment to environmental stewardship, positioning the museum as a forward-thinking exemplar of sustainable architecture within a sensitive desert ecosystem.

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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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