Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Eco-friendly lodging featuring cross-laminated timber and carbonized wood shingles designed for desert resilience

Authors:
Fateme Balkis, Tasneem Elmandouh, Lilian Mahmoud
Eco-friendly lodging featuring cross-laminated timber and carbonized wood shingles designed for desert resilience

Project in-detail

Nestled in the arid landscapes of Abu Dhabi, this eco-friendly lodging elegantly combines cross-laminated timber panels and charred wood shingles to create a sustainable retreat that echoes the natural adaptations of desert wildlife.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The project incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, known for their strength and sustainability, providing a lightweight yet durable structural solution.
02
Charred wooden shingles are used not only for aesthetic appeal but also for their natural fire-resistant properties, enhancing safety in a desert environment.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes airflow and sunlight penetration, creating energy-efficient living spaces while minimizing heat gain.
04
Integrated greywater recycling systems are employed for water reuse, reflecting a commitment to resource conservation in an arid climate.
05
Shading fabrics and palm panels are strategically placed to provide effective cooling, reducing reliance on mechanical air conditioning in the hot desert landscape.
The Mega Dunes Ecologdes project represents a thoughtful exploration of architecture that balances human needs with environmental considerations in the challenging landscape of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This project focuses on creating sustainable living spaces that harmonize with the desert environment, showcasing the potential for innovative design to respect and enhance natural ecosystems.

The architectural design features structures that are deeply integrated into the surrounding terrain. They draw inspiration from traditional desert living and the adaptive strategies seen in local wildlife, particularly how animals create shelters that offer protection from extreme weather. This functional approach not only addresses the practical challenges posed by the desert climate but also reflects a sensitivity to the cultural context of the region.

One of the key functions of the Mega Dunes Ecologdes is to provide comfortable accommodations while promoting sustainability. The layout includes a variety of lodging options, such as a central hub for communal activities and private lodges that cater to different guest experiences. The design of these spaces emphasizes both social interaction and personal retreat, fostering a sense of community while also allowing for privacy. This duality enhances the overall experience for guests, encouraging engagement with both the natural landscape and fellow visitors.

In terms of design approaches, the project employs a unique architectural language characterized by its use of natural materials and innovative construction techniques. The choice of Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) provides a lightweight yet sturdy structural framework, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability while ensuring longevity. The addition of double-glazed glass not only enhances energy efficiency but also invites ample natural light into the interior spaces, promoting a connection with the outside environment.

Shading fabric and specially designed palm panels play a crucial role in the project's thermal performance. By offering shade during the hottest parts of the day, these elements reduce reliance on mechanical cooling systems, drawing upon natural cooling strategies. This thoughtful integration of passive design principles speaks to a broader commitment to reducing the ecological footprint of the development.

Attention to water management is also a vital aspect of the Mega Dunes Ecologdes. The implementation of greywater systems allows for the reuse of water, highlighting a sophisticated approach to resource management. Combined with composting toilets, these systems promote sustainability by minimizing water consumption and maximizing efficiency.

The architectural design incorporates various layers and forms that echo the natural dunes of the desert. This organic approach not only mediates the transitions between different spaces but also enhances the aesthetic connection with the environment. The structures' curvature serves to direct airflow naturally, further improving climate responsiveness and occupant comfort.

Overall, the Mega Dunes Ecologdes stands as a relevant example of how architecture can foster a sustainable lifestyle while embracing the unique characteristics of its location. The design emphasizes collaboration with the natural landscape, promoting not just an appreciation for the desert but an understanding of how to live harmoniously within it.

For those interested in delving deeper into this impressive project, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas will provide a comprehensive understanding of the innovative and sustainable elements that define the Mega Dunes Ecologdes. Engaging with these resources offers insight into how architectural practice can effectively address ecological and cultural challenges in today's world.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy