Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Geodesic Habitat Built with Insulated Sandwich Panels and Textile Fog Nets for Sustainable Living

Author:
Luc Michel Pecourt
Geodesic Habitat Built with Insulated Sandwich Panels and Textile Fog Nets for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with insulated sandwich panels and enhanced by textile fog nets, this geodesic habitat offers a self-sufficient living solution designed for arid climates.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes textile fog nets for atmospheric water collection.
02
Features a lightweight geodesic dome structure for enhanced mobility.
03
Incorporates composting toilet systems to promote waste recycling.
04
Employs prefabricated components for rapid on-site assembly.
05
Designed for flexible relocation in response to environmental changes.

The project titled “L'escargot” represents a prototype of sustainable architecture addressing the challenges of habitation in arid regions. Designed by Alain Briost and Luc Pecourt, it embodies a response to climate-related environmental issues that threaten traditional living conditions. The architectural design underscores the importance of adaptability and resource efficiency while providing essential shelter in demanding climates.

The core of the design revolves around a geodesic dome structure, which promotes durability and thermal efficiency. This architectural form is not only visually distinctive but also functionally advanced, allowing for efficient heat management and mobility. The habitat integrates several key elements: insulated sandwich panels, aluminum frameworks, prefabricated floor panels, and textile fog nets, which collectively contribute to its resilience and environmental compatibility.

Sustainable functionalities are embedded in the design. The structure includes water production systems through fog nets, capable of capturing atmospheric moisture. The inclusion of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and a wind turbine, ensures the habitat can operate independently from traditional utility sources. This self-sufficiency is further enhanced by a composting toilet system that facilitates recycling of waste, thereby promoting sustainability within the living environment.

The prototype's design stands out due to its focus on modularity and flexibility. Unlike conventional houses, “L'escargot” can be disassembled and relocated as needed, making it particularly relevant for areas experiencing climate shifts and population displacement. The interior space is effectively organized with multi-functional furniture, allowing for efficient use of the limited area while fostering community interaction among occupants.

Overall, “L'escargot” signifies a new approach to housing in extreme climates, combining modern architectural principles with innovative environmental strategies. Its design promotes a sustainable lifestyle while addressing overarching issues of resource scarcity and mobility in the context of climate change.

For a more detailed exploration of this architectural project, including architectural plans and sections, readers are encouraged to review the project presentation for deeper insights into its innovative designs and architectural ideas.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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.

`

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

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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