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Natural Harmony Achieved Through Earth-Based Materials and Organic Forms in Desert Living

Natural Harmony Achieved Through Earth-Based Materials and Organic Forms in Desert Living
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Utilizing adobe and rammed earth, the design seamlessly integrates organic forms with local climate considerations to create a sustainable residence that fosters indoor-outdoor living in the Tunisian desert.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local adobe and rammed earth to enhance thermal regulation in a desert climate.
02
Incorporates windcatchers to facilitate natural ventilation and reduce reliance on mechanical cooling.
03
Features organic shapes that mimic the surrounding desert landscape, promoting visual harmony.
04
Includes large glass openings for abundant natural light while minimizing glare and heat.
05
Design integrates dedicated light pipes, channeling daylight into interior spaces for year-round illumination.

## Overview

Located in the oasis of Chebika, Tunisia, the project reflects a thoughtful synthesis of contemporary and traditional architectural principles. The intent is to create a home that fosters a strong connection with the surrounding desert landscape while prioritizing occupant comfort and well-being.

## Spatial Strategy

The layout features fluid, organic shapes that depart from conventional designs. Functional areas include a living/dining space that serves as a central gathering point and a transitional area that enhances cross-ventilation between indoor and outdoor environments. A dedicated office space provides a tranquil work area, while the bedroom and bathroom are designed as personal retreats, ensuring privacy and comfort. This non-linear arrangement is inspired by the surrounding topography, promoting a dynamic flow throughout the spaces.

## Materiality and Environmental Integration

The design employs a combination of traditional Tunisian building materials and modern sustainable practices. Earth-based materials, such as adobe and rammed earth, are utilized for walls to enhance thermal comfort and stability. Concrete elements contribute to the structural integrity and durability of the home, while large glass openings facilitate natural light and visual connectivity to the exterior. Wood elements in windows and furnishings introduce warmth and a tactile quality to the interior spaces.

Innovative strategies for natural light and ventilation are central to the design. Windcatchers are incorporated to capture cooling breezes and improve indoor air quality, while strategically positioned light pipes channel natural light into the interiors. This approach not only optimizes illumination with varying qualities of light throughout the day but also minimizes glare, enhancing the overall living experience.

The project stands as a demonstration of how modern design can harmoniously coexist with traditional techniques, reinforcing the relationship between the built environment and its natural context.

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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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