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Thermal Regulation Through Natural Plaster and Sustainable Timber in Contemporary Desert Living

Author:
Adithya David Premraj
Thermal Regulation Through Natural Plaster and Sustainable Timber in Contemporary Desert Living

Project in-detail

With its durable dome structures crafted from reinforced concrete and sustainable timber, the design harmonizes with the desert landscape while promoting community living through adaptive shared spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dome structures enhance thermal efficiency through passive cooling.
02
Community areas are integrated into the design to promote social interaction.
03
Natural plaster finishes blend seamlessly with the desert landscape.
04
Sustainable timber is used for both structural integrity and aesthetic warmth.
05
The layout maximizes airflow and natural light while ensuring privacy.
The Tuwaq Palace represents a notable advancement in desert architecture, seamlessly combining modern design principles with traditional cultural elements. The project is situated in an arid landscape, where the architectural response is thoughtfully designed to address environmental challenges while fostering community. Tuwaq Palace serves not only as a residential complex but also as a communal environment that encourages social interaction among its inhabitants.

The spatial organization of the project exemplifies an integrated approach to living and community engagement. The primary residential units, shaped as dome structures, demonstrate efficient thermal regulation, embracing the principles of passive heating and cooling essential for desert climates. Each unit is designed with privacy in mind, while positioning them to facilitate shared experiences in communal spaces.

Unique Design Approaches

A distinguishing characteristic of Tuwaq Palace is its biophilic design, which emphasizes a connection between the occupants and their natural surroundings. This is achieved through the incorporation of natural materials, such as reinforced concrete and sustainable timber, ensuring durability while offering a tactile quality to the environment. The exterior finishes utilize natural plaster that harmonizes with the landscape, reinforcing the project's intent to blend the built and natural worlds.

The positioning of the communal gathering area plays a critical role in this project. It serves as a focal point for social interactions and community events, designed to cater to the needs of residents. This space is flexible, enabling various activities and fostering a sense of belonging among residents. Additionally, the strategic landscaping around the Palace supports local flora, encouraging biodiversity and enhancing the ecological footprint of the development.

Architectural Functionality and Sustainability

The functionality of the project is supported by passive design strategies. The dome structures take advantage of natural light and airflow, reducing the reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems. Orientation and site layout are meticulously planned to take advantage of natural ventilation, ensuring comfort throughout the day and night.

The architectural plans illustrate the careful consideration of both individual and communal spaces, with interior layouts created to optimize usability. By combining traditional architectural forms with modern technological advancements, Tuwaq Palace shifts the narrative of desert living, enabling a sustainable lifestyle that respects cultural heritage while providing contemporary living standards.

For further exploration of the Tuwaq Palace project and a deeper understanding of its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, interested readers are encouraged to review the project presentation. Discover how this project redefines residential architecture in desert environments and its potential for future developments.
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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
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