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Sand Brick Structures and Natural Light Tubes in Sustainable Desert Lodging

Authors:
Mustafa enes Toru, Alpcan Ikiz
Sand Brick Structures and Natural Light Tubes in Sustainable Desert Lodging

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced sand bricks and innovative light tubes, the design integrates seamlessly into the desert landscape, providing a sustainable lodging experience while prioritizing ecological sensitivity and visitor engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced sand bricks to minimize environmental impact.
02
Incorporates light tubes to enhance natural lighting throughout the facility.
03
Features extensive desert landscaping that supports local biodiversity.
04
Integrates aquifer water systems for efficient irrigation and conservation.
05
Design prioritizes visitor engagement with scenic ecological pathways.

The Desert Oasis project is an architectural design initiative located near Heart Dune in the southern region of the United Arab Emirates. This project addresses the intersection of tourism and ecology by creating a sustainable complex that introduces visitors to the unique desert landscape while minimizing environmental impact. The design integrates local materials and ecological principles, aiming to serve both functional and aesthetic purposes in harmony with the existing ecosystem.

Sustainability and environmental integration are at the core of this project. The architectural design incorporates features that allow for natural light utilization through light tubes, reduces energy consumption, and promotes water conservation via aquifer water systems. The project employs sand bricks made from local resources, reducing the need for external materials and demonstrating the suitability of regional characteristics in construction. Overall, the Desert Oasis functions as a tourism hub, offering a variety of lodging options, public spaces for engagement, and pathways that showcase the surrounding landscape.

The unique aspect of this project lies in its commitment to fostering biodiversity and encouraging ecological awareness. The integration of desert plants in the landscaping enhances the visual appeal while supporting local wildlife, including the endangered Arabian Oryx. Additionally, the architectural elements are designed to blend with the natural environment, avoiding disruption to the existing habitat. The use of natural forms in pathways fosters a sense of exploration, allowing visitors to appreciate the desert’s beauty while providing functional circulation routes.

The design strategies deployed in the Desert Oasis project extend beyond aesthetic considerations. The incorporation of sustainability cores and energy-generating systems showcases a comprehensive approach to architectural design that prioritizes environmental responsibility. Features such as sand timers facilitate natural processes, promoting sustainable practices within the architectural context. By merging tourism and conservation, the project represents a model for future developments in arid regions.

For stakeholders and interested readers, further exploration of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas behind the Desert Oasis project provides deeper insights into the innovative approaches and sustainable solutions employed in the design. Engaging with these elements will offer a more comprehensive understanding of how the project addresses both ecological concerns and tourism needs.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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