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Rammed Earth Walls and Solar Energy Integration in a Flexible Modular Desert Settlement

Authors:
Jules Rodschat, Jaya Linfoot, Basil Currie
Rammed Earth Walls and Solar Energy Integration in a Flexible Modular Desert Settlement

Project in-detail

Utilizing rammed earth walls and modular construction methods, this settlement seamlessly integrates solar energy solutions within a flexible design to create a sustainable living environment in the desert.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth for thermal mass to enhance energy efficiency.
02
Modular units allow for easy assembly and disassembly, promoting adaptability.
03
Incorporates solar panels for on-site energy generation, minimizing environmental impact.
04
Native plant landscaping supports local biodiversity and ecosystem health.
05
Design features large glass windows to maximize natural light and desert views.

Al Harakat Salissa is an architectural project designed for an ephemeral settlement within a desert landscape, emphasizing sustainability and adaptability. The project integrates modern amenities while respecting the surrounding ecosystem, creating a unique living experience that bridges traditional and contemporary design practices.

The settlement serves multiple functions, including residential, social, and recreational spaces, promoting interaction among residents and fostering a sense of community. The design comprises modular lodging units organized around a central hub, providing shared amenities such as kitchens, lounges, and gathering areas.

Unique Design Approaches
One notable aspect of Al Harakat Salissa is its modular construction, allowing units to be easily assembled and disassembled. This flexibility ensures minimal environmental impact and accommodates the temporary nature of the settlement. The architectural design mimics traditional tent structures, incorporating large glass windows for natural light and sweeping views of the desert landscape. Sustainable materials, such as rammed earth and aluminum, are utilized not only for their durability but also for their ability to enhance energy efficiency.

Incorporating passive cooling methods and renewable energy sources, the project minimizes reliance on mechanical systems. Its layout promotes natural ventilation, optimizing indoor climate control in response to the desert climate. The selection of native vegetation within the landscaping design supports local biodiversity and enhances the aesthetic value of the community.

Sustainable Material Selection
The use of specific materials is key to the project's environmental strategy. Aluminum provides structural integrity while remaining lightweight, and polycarbonate glazing allows for transparency and thermal regulation. Rammed earth walls contribute to thermal mass, effectively stabilizing indoor temperatures. Wood adds warmth to interiors, and the integration of solar panels emphasizes the settlement's commitment to renewable energy.

The project’s design reflects a cohesive blend of form and function, addressing both the needs of its inhabitants and the unique challenges posed by the desert environment. By prioritizing sustainability and community interaction, Al Harakat Salissa offers a contemporary approach to desert living.

To gain a deeper understanding of this architectural project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs presented, which provide further insights into the innovative ideas that underpin this settlement.

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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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