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Skylight-Enhanced Lodges with Modular Jaimas in Desert Community

Authors:
Patricia Fondello, Camila Carvajal, Isidro Roch
Skylight-Enhanced Lodges with Modular Jaimas in Desert Community
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With modular jaimas and skylight-enhanced interiors designed to maximize natural light, these lodges offer a sustainable housing solution that harmonizes with the desert landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for reconfiguration based on user needs and climate conditions.
02
Central courtyards enhance natural ventilation and outdoor accessibility.
03
VIP lodges feature a terrace that aligns with panoramic desert views.
04
Inspired by traditional Bedouin jaimas for functional, temporary living.
05
Common hub design encourages social interaction among residents.

The design emerges from the expansive desert landscape, characterized by its sandy terrain and open skies. It provides sustainable living solutions through modular lodges that integrate with the environment. Drawing inspiration from traditional Bedouin shelters, the concept focuses on adaptability and simplicity, creating comfortable spaces that serve the needs of inhabitants while respecting the surrounding landscape.

Modular Construction

The design features a series of modular lodges that function independently yet are part of a larger communal layout. Each lodge has a central core that acts as the main service area, providing essential amenities accompanied by a skylight. This allows for natural light and ventilation. The design balances a sense of security with openness, encouraging residents to connect with the vast desert views.

Living Spaces

Around the central core are living modules designated for dining, sleeping, and cooking. These modules can be adjusted based on user requirements and environmental factors, showcasing flexibility in addressing the changing desert climate. The configuration of these spaces promotes efficient resource use, creating an inviting atmosphere that facilitates comfort and interaction.

Outdoor Integration

Courtyards formed by empty modules serve as functional outdoor spaces, doubling as decks to enhance ventilation. These shaded areas promote outdoor activity and relaxation. This integration of courtyards emphasizes the connection between indoor and outdoor life, promoting a comprehensive living experience in the desert.

Community Hub

A common hub is designed as a modular grid, accommodating several functions such as reception, dining, and utility services. Natural light fills these communal areas through thoughtfully placed courtyards, fostering a sense of interaction among residents. This approach enhances the shared experience, aligning with the overall goals of the design.

Among the thoughtful details, the VIP lodges feature a central skylight that extends into a terrace, offering panoramic views of the desert landscape while providing privacy and comfort within the living space.

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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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Competition organisers

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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