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Natural Cooling with Badgir Design and Earthy Finishes in a Desert Lodge Complex

Author:
Mikhail Mukhin
Natural Cooling with Badgir Design and Earthy Finishes in a Desert Lodge Complex

Project in-detail

Harnessing the ancient badgir system for natural cooling, this desert resort complex integrates earthy finishes and sustainable materials to create a serene retreat that prioritizes wildlife observation and environmental harmony.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates an ancient badgir system to naturally cool spaces, enhancing thermal comfort without mechanical systems.
02
Lodges are elevated on stilts to prevent disruption to local wildlife movement, promoting ecological sensitivity.
03
Earthy finishes are used throughout the project, allowing buildings to blend harmoniously with the desert landscape.
04
Panoramic windows provide unobstructed views for observing local wildlife, fostering a deeper connection with nature.
05
Communal gathering areas are strategically designed to encourage social interaction while integrating seamlessly with the surrounding environment.
The presented architectural project focuses on the design of a desert resort complex that seamlessly blends sustainability with modern architectural practices. Located within a vast desert landscape, the project aims to provide a unique getaway for tourists while highlighting the importance of environmental conservation, particularly for species like the endangered Arabian oryx. By establishing a connection between architecture and nature, this project exemplifies how thoughtful design can foster awareness and appreciation for the surrounding ecosystem.

This resort complex functions as a leisure and educational destination, offering visitors a comfortable stay while encouraging them to engage with the magnificent desert environment. The design includes various accommodations, such as standard and VIP lodges, arranged to create an inviting atmosphere. Each lodge is designed to optimize comfort, featuring panoramic windows that frame unobstructed views of the desert and its stunning night sky, while private terraces provide outdoor spaces for relaxation and observation.

Integral to the architectural design are elements that reflect a commitment to sustainability. The buildings are elevated on stilts, which prevents disruption to the natural sand movement and ensures a minimal footprint on the landscape. This strategy also grants guests stunning views and enhances airflow, promoting natural ventilation within the lodges. The roofs are pitched to allow for efficient rainwater drainage while maximizing the height needed for the inclusion of traditional design features, such as the badgir system. This wind tower captures prevailing breezes, facilitating passive cooling throughout the complex, thus reducing the reliance on mechanical air conditioning systems.

The material palette is deliberately chosen to align with the local context and environmental ethos, incorporating durable materials such as concrete, glass, and wood. Concrete lends longevity to the structure while glass maximizes natural light, creating bright and welcoming interiors. Wood accents provide warmth and an organic feel, connecting visitors to the immediate environment. Earthy finishes are employed throughout, ensuring that the buildings harmonize visually with the surrounding landscape.

Unique design approaches, such as the integration of communal spaces, are included to enhance social interaction among guests. The main building houses a dining area that integrates panoramic glazing, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the sweeping desert views while dining. Outdoor gathering spots serve as informal meeting spaces, encouraging collaboration and engagement among guests. The layout is multi-faceted, inviting exploration and encouraging an appreciation for the natural and architectural elements of the resort.

Understanding the importance of local wildlife, the project serves as a potential hub for eco-tourism. Carefully designed observation platforms are positioned to provide vistas that invite guests to engage with both the desert landscape and its native inhabitants, promoting educational opportunities. These features are essential not only for adding value to the visitor experience but also for advocating the importance of wildlife conservation.

Overall, this architectural project represents a thoughtful integration of modern design principles with timeless strategies that respect and elevate the surrounding environment. Its focus on sustainability, community interaction, and engagement with the natural landscape ensures its relevance in contemporary architectural discourse. For a more comprehensive understanding of this exceptional design, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and innovative architectural ideas presented in the project materials.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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