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Rammed Earth and Natural Timber Create Eco-Friendly Educational Spaces in Desert Landscape

Authors:
Joshua Hollie, Eva Baghdan, Uju Oh
Rammed Earth and Natural Timber Create Eco-Friendly Educational Spaces in Desert Landscape

Project in-detail

Utilizing rammed earth and locally sourced timber, the design integrates educational spaces within the desert landscape, fostering a connection to the surrounding wetlands while promoting environmental awareness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with rammed earth, the project achieves high thermal efficiency suited for the desert climate.
02
Locally sourced timber is utilized in a unique bent A-frame design, enhancing structural integrity.
03
Observation decks provide panoramic views of the wetlands, promoting ecological study and engagement.
04
Interactive atriums display local habitats, fostering a hands-on learning experience for visitors.
05
Metal screens offer shading while incorporating artistic elements aligned with the natural landscape.
"Terrestrial Sails" is an architectural project situated near Abu Dhabi's Al Wathba Wetland Reserve. This design harmonizes with its natural environment, focusing on sustainability and education. It features a two-level structure that integrates diverse functions, specifically designed to engage with visitors and the surrounding ecosystem.

The ground level encompasses a reception area, diverse exhibition spaces, and dedicated learning environments. This area facilitates educational programs centered around the local wildlife and ecological systems. The inclusion of a central atrium promotes an immersive natural experience, allowing for the display of local habitats that engage both visitors and the community. The second level features observation decks that offer expansive views of the wetlands, allowing users to study avian species and understand their ecological significance. Additionally, multipurpose rooms serve as venues for community discussions on environmental issues.

A distinctive aspect of "Terrestrial Sails" is its architectural form inspired by natural elements, like sails and water ripples, which enhances both aesthetic appeal and environmental functionality. The building’s curvature and design foster natural ventilation, reducing the need for mechanical cooling in the intense local climate. This biomimetic approach supports an energy-efficient operation, demonstrating a commitment to ecological preservation.

The choice of materials is significant in the project's design. The facade incorporates locally sourced timber for warmth and texture, reinforced concrete for structural resilience, and glass that balances transparency with energy efficiency. Furthermore, the use of rammed earth contributes to thermal mass, aiding temperature regulation indoors. Decorative metal screens enhance shading while providing a dynamic visual quality. Each material serves not only as a building component but as part of the overall ecological strategy, ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding habitat.

Explore the comprehensive project presentation to uncover detailed architectural plans, sections, and design elements, offering further insights into the design philosophy and unique attributes of "Terrestrial Sails." This architectural endeavor exemplifies a commitment to education, sustainability, and ecological integration.
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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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