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Textured Clay Lodges with Glycerol Binding in a Desert Community Format

Authors:
Fatemeh Bahari, Tara Fartash-naini
Textured Clay Lodges with Glycerol Binding in a Desert Community Format

Project in-detail

Employing locally sourced clay bound with glycerol, the design seamlessly incorporates textured lodges into the desert landscape, fostering community connections in a sustainable living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The architecture utilizes locally sourced clay combined with glycerol for enhanced binding and textural complexity.
02
A spiral layout fosters natural circulation and promotes communal interactions among residents.
03
The project integrates large openings for daylighting, optimizing energy efficiency in a desert environment.
04
Handcrafted clay walls provide a unique tactile experience and reflect traditional building methods.
05
The design includes modular components, allowing for flexibility and adaptation in future expansion.
The project at hand represents a thoughtful exploration of architectural design within a desert context, showcasing an innovative approach to communal living while placing significant emphasis on sustainability and cultural identity. At its core, this architecture serves as a reflection of the surrounding environment and local traditions, intertwining natural elements with modern construction techniques to create a harmonious and functional living space.

This architectural project is characterized by a circular layout that reinforces communal ties among its inhabitants. The design resonates with ancient tribal patterns, fostering connection while promoting an intuitive flow throughout the space. The central area serves as a communal hub, allowing residents to gather and interact, thereby encouraging a strong sense of community. Surrounding this nucleus are various lodges designed to accommodate both standard and VIP guests, showcasing a diverse approach to living arrangements that cater to different needs without detracting from the overall aesthetic coherence.

The use of local materials is a hallmark of this project, with clay being the primary component. This choice not only emphasizes sustainability but also roots the architecture in its geographical setting, as clay is abundant and traditionally used in local construction. Complementing the clay are glycerol and water, which play crucial roles in enhancing the material's workability and texture. Additionally, concrete is incorporated in a selective manner to provide structural integrity, reinforcing the complex forms that define the architecture.

The architectural forms themselves are soft and organic, mirroring the natural undulations of the desert landscape. These flowing lines create a visual connection with the environment while also serving practical functions, such as optimizing airflow and light penetration. This design approach minimizes the harshness often associated with desert climates, resulting in a pleasant and inviting living experience. Large openings strategically placed throughout the structure invite natural light into the interiors, fostering a brighter and more welcoming atmosphere.

Within the interior spaces, careful attention to texture and craftsmanship is evident. Hand-patterned clay walls add a tactile quality, encouraging engagement with the architecture. The interiors are thoughtfully designed to optimize comfort and functionality while maintaining alignment with the overall design ethos of the project. This balance between aesthetic appeal and utilitarian considerations is a testament to the architect’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment that celebrates both individual privacy and communal interaction.

What sets this project apart are its unique design methodologies, which blend traditional building practices with contemporary architectural innovations. The integration of advanced material solutions, such as the combination of clay and glycerol, allows for new possibilities in construction design, enabling the realization of intricate shapes and patterns not typically seen in conventional architecture. Additionally, the project’s sustainability focus is underscored by its commitment to using locally sourced materials, thereby reducing carbon footprints and fostering a healthy relationship between inhabitants and their environment.

This architectural project evokes a deeper appreciation for the context in which it operates, challenging notions of modernity by honoring the natural landscape and cultural heritage. It is an exemplary manifestation of how architecture can transcend mere function, becoming a medium for expressing identity and fostering community.

For those interested in delving deeper into this project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas can provide valuable insights into the intricacies that define this architectural endeavor. By examining these elements, readers can gain a comprehensive understanding of the thoughtful considerations that shape the architectural narrative, thereby enriching their appreciation for this unique project.
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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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