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Modular Lodges with Composite Materials Creating Desert Microclimates

Authors:
Erpinio Labrozzi, Lucia Croci Candiani, Martina Ciceri
Modular Lodges with Composite Materials Creating Desert Microclimates

Project in-detail

Employing prefabricated composite materials, the design creates a network of modular lodges that enhance local biodiversity through microclimates while providing eco-friendly accommodations in the desert landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular lodges utilize prefabricated elements for efficient construction and relocation.
02
Courtyards create microclimates that foster the growth of local vegetation.
03
Water management systems combine condensation towers and rainwater harvesting.
04
Composite materials are derived from local desert sand and aggregates.
05
Design promotes communal gathering while ensuring individual privacy.

Flower Of The Desert combines eco-tourism with a deep respect for the desert environment of the Arabia Oryx protected area. The design features modular lodging units that are flexible in their arrangement. They are crafted to adapt to the specific needs of the visitors as well as the unique challenges presented by the climate. The project emphasizes sustainability and aims to create a meaningful connection with the surrounding natural landscape.

Design Concept

The central idea of Flower Of The Desert is the creation of courtyards that provide shelter while nurturing local plant growth. These outdoor spaces act as microclimates, offering cool areas within the heat of the desert. By focusing on this design aspect, the project forms a type of oasis that enhances biodiversity, allowing flora and fauna to thrive in harmony with the built environment.

Water and Energy Systems

Sustainability is key to the project, particularly its off-grid water and energy systems. A condensation tower collects moisture from the air, and rainwater harvesting helps to manage water usage efficiently. To meet energy needs, solar panels are installed, allowing the lodges to function independently. This approach ensures that visitors can enjoy modern amenities without relying on external resources.

Modular Construction

Prefabricated elements form the basis of the lodging units. Made from a composite material that includes desert sand and other aggregates, these units are constructed with reversible connections. This means they can be easily taken apart and relocated if necessary. Such a method reduces waste and promotes resource conservation, aligning with the project's commitment to environmental care.

Spatial Organization

The arrangement of the lodges is carefully planned to give guests privacy while also encouraging community interaction. By clustering the units, there are shared courtyards that facilitate social gatherings without sacrificing individual comfort. The layout provides shaded areas for outdoor relaxation and activities, integrating the buildings into the desert surroundings, and enhancing the overall experience of visitors.

Residents can enjoy the beauty of the natural landscape while having access to necessary amenities. Each stay contributes to a better understanding of environmental responsibility and appreciation for the unique habitat of the desert.

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

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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

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