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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

Project in-detail

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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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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