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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 Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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