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Inflatable Fabric Structures for Desert Water Collection and Community Living

Author:
Kenza Benkirane
Inflatable Fabric Structures for Desert Water Collection and Community Living
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Inflatable structures harness dew collection techniques to create sustainable living spaces in a desert environment, facilitating both community interaction and essential water services.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inflatable roof materials allow for compact transportation and quick deployment in remote areas.
02
The structure's design optimizes dew condensation for effective water collection.
03
Thermal comfort is maintained through a cooling system using inflatable solar panels.
04
The layout promotes community interaction with shared common spaces and individual lodges.
05
Gutters channel collected water to ensure clean storage for sanitation and drinking.

The design is situated in a harsh desert environment and draws inspiration from how desert beetles gather moisture. It focuses on sustainability and creating flexible living spaces that tackle water scarcity. The concept features an inflatable structure that can be easily transported and quickly set up, making it appropriate for remote areas. This approach emphasizes environmental responsibility while ensuring essential services like sanitation and cooling are accessible.

Water Collection System

A central feature of the design is an innovative water collection system that captures both dew and rainwater, which are essential for sanitation and cooling. The structure's irregular shape maximizes the surface area in contact with the air, allowing for effective condensation. Water vapor from the atmosphere condenses on the cool surfaces, forming droplets that are directed through specialized gutters. These gutters help keep the collected water clean and safe for drinking and hygiene, reinforcing the project’s commitment to holistic sustainability.

Thermal Comfort and Energy Efficiency

The structure is filled with cold air, which is then cooled by a system that uses fans powered by inflatable solar panels. This system provides effective temperature regulation, ensuring that the living spaces remain comfortable throughout the year. The roof is made of two types of inflatable fabric: white for thermal insulation and transparent for light and views of the night sky. This design element enhances the living experience and connects residents with the surrounding environment.

Spatial Organization

Each ecolodge is designed with function and comfort in mind. The layout includes essential areas such as a terrace, entrance, bathroom, toilet, washer unit, bedroom, living room, wardrobe, and desk. This arrangement makes efficient use of the space while fostering a sense of community among occupants.

In addition to the lodges, a common hub serves as a social gathering space. It contains areas for reception, additional toilets, storage, a kitchen, dining space, and a stage for events. This communal area encourages interaction, promoting social engagement among visitors.

The design’s unique roof structure effectively balances temperature control with an inviting atmosphere, enhancing the connection to the natural environment. Each aspect aims to provide both comfort and functionality in a challenging desert setting.

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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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Competition organisers

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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