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Natural Sand Masonry and Mangrove Wood Integrate Seamlessly in Sustainable Desert Residence

Authors:
Ivona DlÁbikovÁ, Lenka DlÁbikovÁ
Natural Sand Masonry and Mangrove Wood Integrate Seamlessly in Sustainable Desert Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing local sand masonry and pressed mangrove wood, the residence harmoniously combines sustainable materials with passive cooling techniques to create a comfortable family home in a desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates local sand masonry for thermal efficiency.
02
Utilizes pressed mangrove wood for structural and aesthetic elements.
03
Features a passive cooling system through a central glass chimney.
04
Incorporates a waste water reservoir for garden irrigation.
05
Designed with modularity in mind for future expansion.
The OASIS House is a contemporary architectural design project located in a desert landscape, emphasizing sustainable living while harmonizing with its natural environment. Designed as a residential structure, the project embodies principles of modern architecture by incorporating sustainable technologies, natural ventilation, and adaptable living spaces. Its layout and material choices reflect a thoughtful consideration of local resources and climatic conditions.

Functional Areas and Layout
The OASIS House features a clear spatial organization that distinguishes between communal and private areas. The ground floor accommodates essential living spaces including a living room, kitchen, and access to the outdoor garden. This arrangement promotes an interactive relationship between the interior and exterior environments, allowing residents to enjoy outdoor spaces throughout the year. The first floor houses private bedrooms, ensuring a balance between social interaction and personal privacy. A central glass corridor links the two levels, enhancing natural light penetration and airflow, contributing to the project's passive cooling strategy.

Sustainable Design Approaches
What sets the OASIS House apart from conventional residential projects is its commitment to sustainability. The design incorporates a variety of unique strategies that reduce environmental impact. The use of masonry blocks made from local desert sand minimizes transportation emissions and supports regional economies. Additionally, pressed boards of mangrove wood, utilized for both structural and decorative purposes, introduce an element of local craftsmanship while offering essential shading that mitigates solar gain.

Innovations in Airflow and Water Management
An innovative natural air conditioning system is central to the design, utilizing a glass chimney to facilitate passive cooling. This feature draws warm air out of the building, encouraging cooler air to flow in from lower sections, addressing the challenges posed by high desert temperatures. Furthermore, a waste water reservoir allows for the recycling of bath and kitchen water for irrigation purposes, enriching the landscape while conserving resources.

Architectural Materials and Aesthetic Integration
The material palette is intentionally selected to favor sustainability, using final plaster, glass, and strategically placed vegetation to enhance aesthetics and functionality. These materials not only contribute to the thermal performance of the building but also create a visual appeal that resonates with the natural surroundings. The OASIS House's design prioritizes a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering a lifestyle that embraces nature.

For a comprehensive understanding of the OASIS House and its architectural nuances, readers are encouraged to explore the project's presentation in detail, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs to gain deeper insights into its innovative concepts and implementation.
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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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