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Earth Sheltered Retreat Featuring Passive Cooling and Rammed Earth Construction

Authors:
Anindya Pandit, Mustafizur Rahman, Ajmain Robin, Pritam Dey, Md. Jahidul Ahasan
Earth Sheltered Retreat Featuring Passive Cooling and Rammed Earth Construction

Project in-detail

Incorporating rammed earth construction and a sunken courtyard for passive cooling, this retreat maximizes thermal efficiency while providing a serene living space within a harsh desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a sunken courtyard that optimizes natural cooling and minimizes direct sunlight exposure.
02
Utilizes locally sourced rammed earth for high thermal mass and energy efficiency.
03
Features a wind-catcher design that enhances airflow and indoor comfort.
04
Integrates native vegetation around the structure to improve the microclimate.
05
Employs an orientation strategy to maximize passive solar heating during winter months.

The architectural project "Shadow of the Sand" is designed for an arid desert environment, focusing on sustainable practices and climate-responsive design. It integrates traditional and contemporary architectural principles to create a functional living space that provides relief from high temperatures while fostering a strong connection to the landscape. This design emphasizes passive cooling strategies and natural materials, addressing the challenges posed by the desert climate effectively.

Sustainable Materials and Construction Techniques

One of the defining characteristics of "Shadow of the Sand" is its use of locally sourced, sustainable materials. Key components include reinforced rammed earth for walls, concrete for structural integrity, wood for aesthetic finishes, glass for natural lighting, gravel for enhanced thermal performance, and metal for structural reinforcement. Each material is carefully selected to contribute to energy efficiency and the overall durability of the structure. The integration of these materials showcases a commitment to sustainability while maintaining alignment with regional building traditions.

Innovative Design Elements

"Shadow of the Sand" incorporates unique design approaches that distinguish it from conventional desert architecture. The sunken courtyard is central to the design, serving as a passive cooling mechanism by capturing breezes and reducing sun exposure. The architectural layout is oriented to maximize views and facilitate cross-ventilation between spaces.

Additionally, the inclusion of a wind-catcher enhances indoor air quality by drawing in cool breezes, significantly contributing to thermal comfort. The careful arrangement of rooms around the central courtyard creates a communal atmosphere while maintaining individual privacy, appealing to both social interactions and personal retreat.

Environmental Considerations and Lifestyle Integration

The project highlights environmental responsiveness through its architectural design strategy. By utilizing passive solar design, it minimizes reliance on mechanical cooling systems, reducing energy consumption. The landscaping around the structure is also designed to further enhance the microclimate, with vegetation strategically placed to provide shade and improve air quality.

"Shadow of the Sand" is not only a feature of architectural innovation but also an embodiment of how design can thoughtfully integrate with its environment. The project invites exploration of its architectural plans, sections, and design elements. For a comprehensive understanding of how each aspect interrelates to produce a cohesive architectural experience, examining the project presentation is encouraged, as it provides deeper insights into the architectural ideas that form the foundation of this unique design.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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