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Perforated Aluminum Roof and Fabric Interiors Enhancing Bedouin Heritage Hospitality

Author:
Gustė Jurgaitytė
Perforated Aluminum Roof and Fabric Interiors Enhancing Bedouin Heritage Hospitality
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A perforated aluminum roof complements fabric-covered walls, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow while providing an immersive experience of Bedouin culture and hospitality in a sustainable desert accommodation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated aluminum panels enhance natural light and ventilation throughout the interiors.
02
Fabric-covered walls evoke traditional Bedouin living spaces while providing insulation.
03
The design includes flexible interior layouts to accommodate various guest activities.
04
A dedicated observation area for stargazing connects visitors to the desert night sky.
05
Cultural storytelling is integrated into the architectural elements, enriching the visitor experience.

The Cultural Experience Camp at Mega Dunes Eco Lodges in Abu Dhabi combines tourism with a focus on environmental care. Located in a desert setting, the camp offers visitors a chance to experience the lifestyle of the Bedouins while engaging in responsible tourism practices. The design connects deeply with the local culture and nature, creating a special blend of architecture that tells a story of its surroundings.

Design Concept
The design is rooted in the idea of "genius loci," which emphasizes the significance of a place. This idea shapes the overall architecture, leading to a structure that resonates with its natural environment. The building features dual elements that protect its core while creating a sense of curiosity, demonstrating a balance between safety and visual appeal.

Material Selection
Materials for the camp are chosen to reflect local traditions and support sustainability. Walls covered in fabric and carpeted floors create a comfortable and warm environment, reminiscent of traditional nomadic living spaces. Perforated aluminum panels add both beauty and functionality, allowing natural light to enter while helping to regulate temperature inside the building.

Interior Configuration
The interior is designed for flexibility, featuring lightweight furniture that can easily be rearranged. This adaptability supports various activities for visitors while remaining connected to Bedouin customs through comfortable seating and design elements. These spaces encourage interaction among guests, emphasizing the local value of hospitality.

Architectural Details
A notable feature of the camp is its roof, which is made of two layers of perforated aluminum sheets. This design forms an interesting pattern that interacts with light, creating an ever-changing environment inside. The perforated sections enhance the sense of space by allowing glimpses of the night sky, deepening visitors' connection to the natural world around them.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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