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Earthen Walls and Polycarbonate Shelters for Desert Living

Author:
Zhenting Jiang
Earthen Walls and Polycarbonate Shelters for Desert Living
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Built with earthen walls and lightweight polycarbonate panels, the microhome provides a sustainable living solution in the arid Mo-Us Desert, supporting environmental protection efforts through its innovative water collection system and renewable energy capabilities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Innovative water collection system utilizes air and condensation.
02
Microhome features a flexible interior layout with multifunctional furniture.
03
Structure's elevation allows for practical tool storage beneath.
04
Designed for self-sufficiency with integrated photovoltaic panels.
05
Utilizes a mix of traditional earthen walls and modern polycarbonate.

The project addresses desertification in the Mo-Us Desert, one of China's largest desert regions, focusing on creating sustainable living environments for those working on environmental protection. The design revolves around a microhome that is self-sufficient and offers essential living and working spaces. The overall concept highlights adaptability to the harsh conditions of the desert and emphasizes effective management of limited resources.

Elevated Structure

The microhome sits elevated from the ground, which allows it to deal with the uneven desert terrain. This elevation serves multiple functions: it provides space for tool storage beneath the home and helps the structure withstand harsh weather. Lifting the dwelling minimizes excavation work, making it an appropriate solution for the challenging landscape.

Sustainable Water Collection

A notable component of the design is the podium that acts as a water-collecting system. It works by capturing air and condensation to provide residents with water, tackling the issue of scarcity in this dry climate. This innovative solution aligns with environmental goals and ensures that occupants have access to necessary water resources.

Renewable Energy Integration

The microhome features a sloped roof designed for photovoltaic panels. This setup allows the home to generate its own power, which is crucial for maintaining energy in a remote area. By incorporating renewable energy, the design promotes self-sufficiency and ensures reliability for daily living.

Flexible Interior Design

Inside, the microhome has a versatile layout that accommodates various living and working needs. It includes a foldable bed, curtains, and a flippable tabletop, which together create adaptable spaces. This flexibility is particularly useful for residents who may switch between work and personal activities, maximizing the limited area of the home.

The construction uses a combination of traditional brick, earthen walls, and lightweight polycarbonate panels. This mix not only provides solid insulation but also keeps construction costs reasonable, making the design accessible for its intended users. The final result is a functional living space that meets contemporary needs while addressing the realities of a challenging environment.

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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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