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Electrochromic Glazing and Black Absorber Plate in Sustainable Desert Lodge

Authors:
Notash Dadjoo, Navid Ahmadi, Anahita Barari, Samira Karimi
Electrochromic Glazing and Black Absorber Plate in Sustainable Desert Lodge

Project in-detail

Utilizing electrochromic glazing and a black absorber plate, the lodge functions as a sustainable retreat in a desert environment, providing an efficient balance of thermal regulation and natural light.
5 key facts about this project
01
Electrochromic glazing adapts to temperature changes, optimizing light and privacy.
02
A black absorber plate enhances thermal performance, reducing energy needs.
03
Water management includes advanced hydropanels and multi-stage purification processes.
04
Natural ventilation is achieved through strategically placed chimneys for thermal stratification.
05
The layout fosters community interaction while respecting individual privacy.

The VIP Lodge represents a thoughtful approach to architecture that emphasizes sustainability and a strong connection to the natural environment. Situated in a region known for its harsh climate and unique ecological features, the lodge serves an important role in eco-tourism. It provides comfortable living spaces that encourage interaction with the surrounding landscape. The design concept aims to integrate the built structure with its environment, creating a cohesive experience for its users.

Structural Components

The building incorporates various elements that enhance its performance and comfort. A negative glass pane is used to optimize energy efficiency, allowing light to enter while regulating temperature. Central to the thermal management of the lodge is a black absorber plate, which captures solar energy and reduces heat loss during the cooler months. Combined with effective thermal insulation, these features work together to maintain a stable indoor climate.

Water Management

A significant focus of the design is on sustainable water use and treatment. The hydropanel is integrated into the structure to harvest water efficiently, making the most of available resources. The water treatment process includes essential stages like pre-filtration, active sludge treatment, and UV disinfection. This comprehensive system guarantees high-quality water for residents, reflecting a commitment to responsible environmental practices.

Daylight Optimization

Maximizing the use of natural light is another important aspect of the lodge. A detailed daylight factor analysis ensures that all spaces receive adequate sunlight throughout the day. This consideration not only improves the visual quality of each room but also contributes to energy efficiency. The way light interacts with the building creates an ever-changing atmosphere that varies with the time of day.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the lodge is carefully designed to provide distinct areas for living, dining, and social interaction. Key spaces include a main lobby, a central yard, and a view platform, promoting a sense of belonging among residents while ensuring privacy. This arrangement allows various activities to take place while reinforcing a deep connection to the surrounding landscape, enhancing the overall experience for everyone.

The design features a chimney to support thermal stratification, facilitating airflow throughout the interior. Additionally, electrochromic glazing adjusts to temperature changes, enabling effective control over incoming light.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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