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High-Insulated Desert Housing with Tadelakt Finishes

Authors:
Melissa Di Giovanni, Marco D’oltremare, Gabriele D’oltremare, Paola Ardizzola
High-Insulated Desert Housing with Tadelakt Finishes
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Designed with high-insulated glass and finished with Tadelakt, the dwelling provides comfort and protection while integrating seamlessly into the harsh desert landscape as a sustainable housing solution.
5 key facts about this project
01
High-insulated glass minimizes heat transfer and maximizes stargazing opportunities.
02
Tadelakt finishes provide a unique aesthetic while enhancing moisture resistance.
03
The structure's geodesic design promotes natural ventilation throughout the interior.
04
Photovoltaic flooring generates renewable energy while ensuring maintenance access.
05
Grid windows, inspired by Middle Eastern tradition, regulate sunlight and airflow.

The design is set in a desert landscape, where it interacts closely with the natural surroundings. The housing module is carefully positioned to blend with its environment, emphasizing horizontal lines that reflect the wide-open desert. By drawing inspiration from traditional building forms, the design tackles the challenges of harsh climate conditions while focusing on sustainability and comfort.

Conceptual Framework

The concept centers on viewing the desert as a source of knowledge. Horizontal alignment echoes the landscape, ensuring the structure feels connected to the earth. The design is influenced by traditional hypogeal and patio houses, offering shelter from the elements while also being open to the desert's beauty. This approach fosters a strong connection between the occupants and their environment.

Spatial Organization

The arrangement of the spaces is planned to support natural airflow and thermal comfort. A geodesic structure provides stability and encourages ventilation throughout the interiors. Careful consideration is given to the placement of windows and openings, allowing natural light to fill the living areas while still maintaining privacy. This balance of open and enclosed spaces creates a comfortable living environment, even in challenging weather conditions.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is at the forefront of the design. Important features include a skylight observatory made of high-insulated glass, which reduces heat transfer and allows for star gazing. Additionally, the use of photovoltaic flooring contributes to energy generation through walkable tiles, which also facilitate maintenance access. Light-gauge steel framing and aqua panels finished with Tadelakt plaster enhance durability and align with sustainable building practices.

Architectural Detailing

Details within the design reflect thoughtful consideration of both appearance and practicality. Grid windows draw on Middle Eastern architectural traditions. They help control sunlight and improve airflow, creating a comfortable atmosphere indoors. The furnishings are designed to be temporary, echoing nomadic lifestyles while inviting interaction with the environment. These details enhance the overall experience, encouraging a deep engagement with the desert setting and the design it has inspired.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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