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Natural Light Optimization in a Desert Retreat

Author:
Nolan Lodholz
Natural Light Optimization in a Desert Retreat

Project in-detail

Maximizing natural light through strategic window placement in a rugged desert setting, the design fosters well-being and a strong connection to the surroundings in a residential retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Optimized for natural light exposure during critical daily cycles.
02
Strategically placed windows reduce overheating while framing landscape views.
03
Located in a unique desert biome that enhances its ecological integration.
04
Layout emphasizes functional areas for work, rest, and connection to nature.
05
Designed to promote well-being through a strong relationship with the environment.

The Circadian Home is located in the Anza Borrego Desert and aims to support the natural circadian rhythm of its inhabitants. It integrates with the rugged landscape while maximizing natural light, especially during important times like dusk and dawn. The design focuses on well-being through a strong connection with the environment.

Maximizing Natural Light

Natural light plays a crucial role in the home’s design. Large openings face north, allowing the bright desert sun to enter during the day. This approach ensures that the interiors remain well-lit without relying heavily on artificial lighting. The home's layout fosters a healthier living space for those inside.

Integrated Landscape

The architecture respects its surroundings, blending into the desert environment. It considers the sharp changes in light and shadow inherent to the region. Careful window placement reduces overheating in the home, making spaces comfortable while providing views of the striking landscape.

Holistic Living Environment

The design prioritizes a well-organized living space, with specific areas for work, rest, and leisure. This layout enhances the experience of the inhabitants by maximizing natural light throughout the home. It creates an atmosphere that encourages relaxation and mental clarity, integrating daily life with the patterns of nature.



Interior spaces are arranged to highlight the changing qualities of light throughout the day, allowing residents to feel more connected to their surroundings and enhancing their daily experience in 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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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