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Petal-Shaped PVC Tents in a Sustainable Desert Oasis

Authors:
Polina Kulikova, Milad Rohani
Petal-Shaped PVC Tents in a Sustainable Desert Oasis
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Constructed with petal-shaped PVC tents and designed to blend into the Arabian Desert landscape, the eco-lodge offers guests a unique opportunity to experience sustainable luxury while connecting with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Petal-shaped tents provide a unique visual and functional design element.
02
Shallow water catchments utilize recycled water to attract local wildlife.
03
Solar-powered golf carts ensure minimal ecological disturbance on-site.
04
Each unit features outdoor beds for sleeping under the stars.
05
An atmospheric water generator captures moisture for sustainable water use.

The Oasis tent hotel project is located in the vast Arabian Desert and provides a unique lodging experience that blends with its natural environment. Inspired by local Jasmine flowers and the outline of the Arabian Oryx, the design creates a connection between guests and their surroundings. This approach reflects the natural beauty of the region, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the desert landscape.

Design Concept

The layout includes twenty-five standard tents and four VIP units, arranged to balance privacy and social interaction. Illuminated pathways guide guests through the sandy terrain, enhancing their experience of the site. Each tent features outdoor beds shaped like petals, making it possible for visitors to appreciate the starlit sky directly from their accommodations.

Common Areas

The common area serves as a central gathering space for guests. Upon arrival, visitors enter a lobby that offers wide views of the desert landscape. An indoor/outdoor restaurant accommodates dining in various weather conditions. Additional amenities, such as a library and outdoor fire pits, encourage relaxation and socializing. The inclusion of wellness facilities like a gym and yoga room supports a complete guest experience.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability is an important focus of the Oasis design. Shallow water catchments use recycled water to attract local wildlife, particularly the Arabian Oryx. The design avoids paved paths, instead relying on solar-powered golf carts to limit disturbance to the environment. Native desert plants are strategically placed around the structures, enhancing privacy and contributing to the overall oasis experience.

Materials and Construction

The tents utilize clear, thick, and tear-resistant PVC, which allows natural light while keeping the interior comfortable. Prefabricated wooden planks are raised on an egg-crate base, providing stability in the challenging desert conditions. An EBS Soil Stabilizer protects the wooden elements from sand erosion. An atmospheric water generator captures moisture from the air, aiding in water conservation. Solar panels, integrated into the design, supply electricity and improve the project's self-reliance.

At each tent, outdoor beds combine practicality with a visual connection to the desert. Guests can enjoy the experience of sleeping under the open sky, fully engaging with the impressive landscape that surrounds them.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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