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Fog Harps and Hydroponics Shaping Sustainable Living in a Compact Desert Microhome

Authors:
Hany Maher Khalil Ibrahim, Rana Hany Maher Khalil
Fog Harps and Hydroponics Shaping Sustainable Living in a Compact Desert Microhome

Project in-detail

Constructed with palmifil bricks and designed with integrated fog harps, this microhome optimizes water conservation and energy efficiency while providing a flexible living space adapted for desert conditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with sustainable palmifil bricks, enhancing thermal regulation.
02
Integrates passive fog harvesting systems for water conservation.
03
Features a central courtyard to promote natural ventilation and social interaction.
04
Adopts hexagonal spatial planning for efficient use of compact living space.
05
Incorporates hydroponic systems for year-round food production within the home.

The Sanctuary microhome project offers an innovative architectural solution tailored for living in challenging subtropical desert environments. The design emphasizes sustainability, community engagement, and resilience, presenting a functional approach to modern living within arid conditions. The project showcases a compact living space that harmonizes human needs with ecological considerations, aligning with contemporary aspirations for sustainable architecture.

Spatial organization is a critical aspect of the design, featuring a central courtyard that promotes natural ventilation and communal interaction. This configuration enhances privacy while facilitating gatherings, thereby supporting a sociable yet introspective living environment. The hexagonal layout is indicative of community-oriented design, drawing inspiration from natural forms, such as beehives and oases, to foster interactivity among residents.

The materials selected for construction are notable for their sustainability and performance. The use of palm fiber bricks and finite sand bricks stands out as a conscious effort to minimize ecological footprints. These materials not only provide structural integrity but also contribute to thermal regulation, crucial in a desert climate. Solar control glass enhances energy efficiency by reducing heat gain while allowing ample natural light.

Unique design features contribute to the project's distinction among similar developments. The integration of innovative water management systems, such as fog harps, allows for passive cooling and water collection from ambient humidity. The hydroponic garden systems incorporated within the microhome facilitate food production and promote self-sufficiency. Furthermore, photovoltaic panels ensure energy independence, generating more energy than the household consumes on a daily basis.

Adaptive interior spaces allow for functional flexibility, catering to diverse daily needs, whether for living, working, or socializing. This arrangement emphasizes the modern requirement for multifunctional environments in compact living, addressing both personal privacy and communal space.

In summary, the Sanctuary microhome project represents a modern architectural response to the demands of sustainable living, while addressing the complexities of desert environments. The focus on community, innovative materials, and functional adaptability sets this design apart from conventional housing options. For a deeper understanding of the project, explore the architectural plans, architectural designs, and architectural sections available. These elements provide further insights into the design approach and the project’s commitment to resilient living.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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