Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Palm Leaf Roof and Bamboo Structures in a Desert Retreat

Author:
Mette Claerman
Palm Leaf Roof and Bamboo Structures in a Desert Retreat

Project in-detail

A palm leaf roof and bamboo structures create a sustainable retreat in the Arabian desert, offering guests a unique blend of cultural integration and comfort in an eco-friendly setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Roof design mimics the surrounding dunes for visual harmony.
02
Palm leaves and bamboo are used to enhance sustainability.
03
Closed panels provide effective sunlight and wind protection.
04
Passive cooling features optimize comfort in a desert climate.
05
Common hub fosters community interaction among guests.

Mega Dunes Eco Lodges is located in the barren beauty of the Arabian desert, where it offers a unique space for relaxation. The design focuses on blending luxury with environmental sensitivity. Its concept highlights the need for a strong connection between the built environment and the natural landscape. The architecture features a roof that echoes the shapes of the sand dunes, which helps the structure fit naturally into its surroundings.

Architecture Concept

The design centers around a roof structure that provides protection from the sun while allowing for natural airflow. This thoughtful approach enhances comfort for those inside. The roof shape is functional, addressing the area’s climate while creating a visual link to the nearby dunes. By maximizing ventilation and light, the building responds well to the demands of the harsh environment.

Materiality

Materials play an important role in the construction. Palm leaves and bamboo are used throughout the design, reflecting the local resources available in the area. This choice not only respects traditional building methods but also emphasizes a commitment to sustainability. Using these materials adds to the overall character of the lodges and allows them to blend in with the natural world around them.

Common Hub

The common hub serves as a gathering place for visitors. It includes different areas for dining, reception, and lounging, all covered by the same roof structure. This roof filters harsh sunlight and provides a comfortable setting for socializing. Bamboo columns support the roof, drawing on local architectural traditions while maintaining a contemporary feel. This design encourages interaction and builds a sense of community among guests.

Interior Design

Inside the lodges, the focus is on simplicity and comfort. The interiors are designed to reflect local culture while providing a modern atmosphere. Spaces are arranged to promote both functionality and connection to the outdoors. Natural light and ventilation enhance the living experience, making each unit feel welcoming and connected to its environment.

The roofing design captures sand from the dunes, reinforcing the building’s integration with the landscape while improving passive cooling features.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy