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Double-Skin Cooling System and Bedouin Design in Sustainable Ecolodges

Authors:
Dániel Kulinyi, Andor Jasper
Double-Skin Cooling System and Bedouin Design in Sustainable Ecolodges

Project in-detail

With a unique double-skin cooling system inspired by Bedouin architecture, these sustainable lodges enable comfortable living in Abu Dhabi's arid climate while fostering community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique double-skin façade enhances natural ventilation and cooling efficiency.
02
Fabrication allows for easy assembly and disassembly to adapt to site conditions.
03
Wooden framework combined with soundproofing materials ensures acoustic comfort.
04
Efficient water management system supports two days of supply for occupants.
05
Solar panels generate renewable energy to power cooling and lighting systems.

The Megadunes Ecolodges are located in Abu Dhabi, a region known for its dry climate and rich Bedouin culture. These lodges serve as sustainable living spaces that reflect both traditional architecture and modern engineering techniques. The design focuses on effective heat management while promoting a relationship between the structures and the surrounding landscape.

Architecture Concept
The design emphasizes a hybrid climatic system, inspired by the ventilation features of traditional Bedouin tents. Each lodge has a double skin that promotes airflow as hot air rises and escapes. This approach enhances energy efficiency and creates a comfortable indoor climate, responding well to the high temperatures typical of the area.

Spatial Arrangement
The lodges are designed in circular forms, with interiors that evoke natural canyon shapes. This layout allows for easy movement between spaces and encourages social interaction among residents. The design emphasizes a connection to nature, creating an intimate experience with the surrounding environment.

Structural Design
A wooden framework supports the lodges, complemented by drywall interiors. This combination ensures both strength and lightweight adaptability to the varied soil conditions of the site. Soundproofing materials are used in the walls to enhance privacy and comfort. Additionally, the lodges are raised on micro piles, ensuring stability across different ground types.

Sustainable Systems
Efficient energy use is a key feature of the design. The lodges utilize high-efficiency fan coil units for cooling, along with low-energy heat pumps that operate on solar power. This reliance on renewable energy significantly reduces the need for conventional power sources. The water system is well-planned, with supply levels calibrated for two days of use, including water-saving fixtures and a management system for wastewater.

The integration of solar energy includes a lithium battery, making energy available when needed, especially at night. Overall, the design prioritizes sustainability while ensuring comfort. The thoughtful combination of natural systems and modern technology creates an environment that is both functional and respectful of the local climate and culture.

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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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