Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Geothermal Cooling and Reinforced Concrete Enhance Sustainable Lodging Among Desert Dunes

Authors:
Camille Laurent, Margaux Barrel, Chloe Brownsmith
Geothermal Cooling and Reinforced Concrete Enhance Sustainable Lodging Among Desert Dunes

Project in-detail

Utilizing geothermal cooling systems and reinforced concrete structures, the design seamlessly integrates with the desert landscape to provide a sustainable lodging experience that emphasizes local culture and environmental harmony.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features a water recycling system that reduces resource consumption in a desert environment.
02
Incorporates geothermal cooling to maintain comfortable interior climates efficiently.
03
Utilizes indigenous plants in landscaping to enhance biodiversity and minimize irrigation needs.
04
Employs semi-circular lodges designed to mimic natural dune shapes for wind resistance.
05
Showcases local art and cultural elements in communal spaces to foster community engagement.

The architectural project "On Nature’s Trail" is a carefully crafted lodging experience situated in the arid landscape of Abu Dhabi. This design represents a comprehensive approach to merging luxury hospitality with environmental sustainability while immersing visitors in the surrounding natural scenery. The project aims to foster a deeper connection between guests and the desert landscape, encouraging an appreciation of the local environment and culture.

The architectural design of "On Nature’s Trail" encompasses various functional spaces, including the main entrance, reception area, individual lodging units, and a communal hub. The main entrance welcomes guests with an expansive, high-ceilinged area that invites natural light and provides views of the desert. The reception area features materials that reflect the project’s overall aesthetic, seamlessly connecting the indoors and outdoors.

The 24 lodging units are strategically arranged to enhance privacy and panoramic views. Each unit features a semi-circular design reminiscent of the nearby dunes, which not only reduces the impact of wind but also integrates the structures into the landscape. The communal hub functions as the social heart of the project, with lounge spaces and dining areas designed for interaction. The use of mashrabiya screens provides privacy while allowing filtered light to enter, creating a dynamic atmosphere throughout the communal spaces.

Unique Design Approaches to Sustainability and Comfort

The project distinguishes itself through its strong commitment to sustainability. It incorporates solar panels, allowing for energy self-sufficiency, and features a water recycling system that minimizes resource consumption. The architectural design employs geothermal principles for energy-efficient climate control, ensuring that interior spaces remain comfortable despite the external heat.

Materials selection further enhances the project’s sustainability objectives. Reinforced concrete provides durability and structural integrity, while wood is used extensively for interior finishes, imparting warmth and a natural aesthetic. Additionally, the extensive use of glass allows for ample daylight, providing unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape and reducing electricity use for lighting.

The landscaping design complements the architectural strategy by integrating indigenous plants, emphasizing an ecological connection to the environment. This focus on local flora promotes biodiversity and reduces the need for water-intensive landscaping practices, aligning with the project’s sustainability goals.

Creating an Immersive Cultural Experience

"On Nature’s Trail" not only emphasizes architectural and environmental considerations but also integrates cultural elements. Local art and photography adorn the spaces, inviting guests to engage with the cultural heritage of the region. The communal hub serves as a platform for cultural exchange, offering activities and workshops that deepen the connection between visitors and the local community.

By merging architectural design with cultural experiences, the project aims to educate and inspire guests, fostering a sense of responsibility toward nature and local traditions.

Explore "On Nature’s Trail" further to discover its architectural plans, sections, designs, and the innovative ideas that define this unique project. By reviewing these elements, you can gain a deeper understanding of its contributions to sustainable architecture and innovative design practices.

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

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

`
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

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
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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