Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Textured Stone Forms Harmonizing With Natural Light in a Desert Habitat

Authors:
Anoud Amer Nayef Alassaf, Marwa Imad Fawzi Ihmoud, Sham Ali Mohammad Aldiqs
Textured Stone Forms Harmonizing With Natural Light in a Desert Habitat

Project in-detail

Utilizing Fibonacci-inspired forms and textured stone to create a seamless connection with the Wadi Rum landscape, the structure serves as a residential space that encourages exploration and reflection amidst a rich cultural narrative.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fibonacci sequences shape the overall form, enhancing harmony with the landscape.
02
Natural stone façade integrates seamlessly with the surrounding geology.
03
Large openings facilitate dynamic light patterns throughout the day.
04
Unique subterranean spaces create a climate-responsive living environment.
05
Textured finishes evoke the desert terrain, enhancing tactile engagement.
The architectural project "Home of Shadow" is located in Wadi Rum, a region noted for its dramatic rock formations and rich cultural narrative. The design embodies the interaction between human experience and mythical storytelling, creating a habitat that serves both as living quarters and a space for introspection. It merges architectural functionality with conceptual depth, representing a blend of traditional elements and innovative constructions that reflect the surrounding landscape.

Spatially, the project is organized into various interconnected zones that promote both communal activities and solitude. The layout encourages movement throughout the home, with fluid transitions between spaces facilitated by gentle ramps and sweeping staircases. Rooms are oriented to maximize views and natural light, ensuring a strong connection to the external environment. The strategic placement of large openings allows for light and shadow to play across the interior, enhancing the sensory experience of the inhabitants.

Unique Design Approaches
The project employs the Fibonacci sequence as a basis for its morphological development, creating forms that resonate with natural growth patterns observed in the landscape. This design approach adds a layer of organic quality to the architecture, setting it apart from conventional rectangular space layouts. The home's integration with its setting aims to evoke a sense of harmony with nature, reinforcing the narrative of coexistence between man and the supernatural.

Materiality plays a key role in the project’s identity. Using reinforced concrete and natural stone, the structure is anchored in its environment while ensuring durability. Glass elements are employed to enhance transparency and encourage an uninterrupted flow between the interior spaces and the scenic vistas outside. Textured finishes are also utilized to echo the rugged terrain, further bridging the gap between the built environment and its natural counterpart.

Exploration of Architectural Ideas
The architectural design challenges typical norms by presenting a dwelling that respects the cultural significance of the region’s folklore. It invites occupants and visitors alike to engage with the space in a reflective manner, facilitating narratives that intertwine personal and collective myths. Through its innovative layout and carefully chosen materials, "Home of Shadow" becomes a continuous dialogue of light, texture, and spatial experience, paving the way for future architectural explorations in sensitive locations.

For a more in-depth understanding of the project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs, readers are encouraged to review the project's comprehensive presentation. This allows for a deeper appreciation of the unique ideas that have shaped "Home of Shadow."
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy