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Textile Membrane Structures Harmonizing With Desert Dunes For Sustainable Lodging

Author:
Joineer Architects
Textile Membrane Structures Harmonizing With Desert Dunes For Sustainable Lodging

Project in-detail

Draped in a lightweight textile membrane that mirrors the soft contours of the surrounding dunes, this innovative lodging experience offers a unique blend of comfort and environmental sensitivity, inviting guests to connect with the vast desert landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The lodging units utilize lightweight textile membranes that mimic the natural contours of desert dunes.
02
Solar panels on the common hub support off-grid operations and enhance energy efficiency.
03
The design incorporates natural ventilation elements to maintain comfort without mechanical systems.
04
Curved forms are achieved using flexible glass fiber reinforced polymer rods, allowing for unique structural expressions.
05
The project promotes interaction with the night sky through strategically placed skylights in each unit.
The project "Hide and Seek" represents a thoughtful approach to architecture within a unique desert environment, designed to create a harmonious connection between human habitation and the natural landscape. This architectural endeavor focuses on providing a distinctive lodging experience that allows individuals to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the dunes while enjoying modern comforts. The design integrates well with its surroundings, reflecting an understanding of the delicate balance between built forms and the natural world.

Functionally, the project comprises a series of lodging units that cater to different visitor needs, featuring 17 standard lodges, 8 VIP lodges, and a common hub for social interaction. This spatial arrangement not only offers varied accommodation options but also promotes community engagement among guests. Each unit is designed for comfort and privacy, while the common hub acts as a focal point, connecting visitors and encouraging shared experiences.

A key aspect of the project is its architectural design, which thoughtfully considers the contours and characteristics of the desert landscape. The geometric forms of the lodges echo the natural curvature of sand dunes, allowing the structures to blend into their environment seamlessly. The intent is to create a retreat where guests can enjoy partial concealment, relishing privacy without completely shutting out the surrounding vistas. This design philosophy fosters an immersive experience, inviting guests to explore and engage with nature.

Materiality plays a crucial role in this architectural project. The choice of materials is purposeful and reflects a commitment to sustainability. Lightweight textile membranes form the tent-like structures, providing flexibility and shelter against the elements while ensuring they do not impose heavily on the landscape. Concrete slabs serve as durable foundations, offering stability and strength. The integration of glass fiber reinforced polymer rods allows for innovative configurations that maintain a lightweight profile. Additionally, stainless steel swivel couplers enable efficient assembly and disassembly, underscoring the project’s adaptability.

The architectural design emphasizes energy efficiency and environmental consideration, featuring solar panels prominently on the common hub to facilitate off-grid functionality. Natural ventilation elements are incorporated into the design, maintaining comfort levels within the units while reducing dependence on artificial cooling systems. These sustainable principles are fundamental to achieving a low-impact architectural outcome that respects the local ecosystem and minimizes energy consumption.

Unique design approaches characterize the interaction of different spaces and their intended experiences. The communal hub is designed with an open layout that encourages social interaction and shared activities, specifically catering to stargazing, a significant aspect of the desert experience. Skylights and strategically placed windows allow for abundant natural light during the day while creating an intimate atmosphere for night-time engagement with the expansive sky.

The overall design concept of "Hide and Seek" embodies an exploration of space and environment, reflecting children’s games of concealment and discovery. This thematic underpinning informs not only the aesthetic qualities of the project but also its experiential narrative. By employing forms that merge with their surroundings, the architecture allows for moments of surprise and delight, enhancing the connection between occupants and their environment.

In summary, "Hide and Seek" represents a careful balance between innovative architectural design and environmental responsibility. Its creators have successfully integrated the functional requirements of lodging with a respectful dialogue about the importance of place and natural beauty. Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design details will provide a deeper understanding of how this project achieves its goals and contributes to its setting. Readers are encouraged to delve into these elements for a comprehensive insight into this unique architectural endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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