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Electrochromic Glass Facades Enhancing Wildlife Viewing in Desert Lodges

Authors:
Noora Hijra, Jordan Yule, Jingzhou Sun
Electrochromic Glass Facades Enhancing Wildlife Viewing in Desert Lodges
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Electrochromic glass facades allow for dynamic light control and wildlife observation in a desert setting, creating a unique experience for guests in luxury lodges designed for stargazing and ecological immersion.
5 key facts about this project
01
Electrochromic glass adjusts tint based on sunlight, enhancing wildlife visibility.
02
Curved facades provide expansive views while blending with the desert landscape.
03
Native plantings attract local fauna and minimize ecological impact.
04
Modular design allows the Common Hub to adapt for various communal activities.
05
Skylights facilitate passive ventilation and stargazing opportunities for guests.

The architectural design features the Standard Lodge, VIP Lodge, and Common Hub, located in a desert area designed to enhance experiences such as wildlife viewing and stargazing. The overall concept focuses on integrating built spaces with the natural environment while drawing from traditional architectural styles to meet contemporary needs.

Design of the Standard Lodge

The Standard Lodge offers guests opportunities for evening wildlife viewing and stargazing. The structure has a curved facade that creates expansive views of the desert landscape. A significant skylight allows for passive ventilation and facilitates star observation, contributing to a unique experience for visitors.



Technological Features

Low-energy electrochromic tinting technology is used on the lodge's glazed surfaces, responding to changing light conditions. This system reduces solar exposure during the day and clears at night, optimizing views for observing wildlife. Additionally, anti-glare film improves visibility, while interior curtains and external shutters provide privacy and control light levels for guests.



VIP Lodge Enhancements

The VIP Lodge builds on the design principles of the Standard Lodge, offering more space and luxury features. It includes a larger washroom with screened windows, along with an expansive indoor viewing platform. The second-floor lounge and outdoor patio provide a direct connection to the desert environment, enhancing comfort and privacy for guests.



Common Hub and Landscape Integration

The Common Hub acts as a gathering space, inspired by traditional Bedouin tents. Designed for communal activities, it facilitates interaction among guests while employing features that respond to the desert climate. The landscaping incorporates native plants that attract local wildlife and support ecological balance. Treated greywater is used for irrigation, helping maintain vegetation that provides hydration and habitat for animals.

The design also includes a glazed floor panel at the entrance, revealing small desert animals seeking shelter, further connecting guests to the local ecosystem.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
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