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Utilizing Mud and Limestone for Sustainable Desert Living Solutions

Author:
Paula Bloma
Utilizing Mud and Limestone for Sustainable Desert Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Incorporating locally sourced limestone and mud, the design creates a self-sustaining community that effectively addresses the challenges of desert living while promoting environmental sensitivity and resource efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes mud and limestone as primary building materials for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Incorporates wind catchers for passive cooling, reducing energy demand.
03
Integrates vertical farming systems within residential units for food self-sufficiency.
04
Employs rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling for effective water management.
05
Features a layout that encourages community interaction while ensuring privacy.

The "Desert Oasis" project represents a contemporary approach to community living within the arid environment of the United Arab Emirates. This architectural design focuses on sustainability, adaptability, and integration with the surrounding landscape. By utilizing off-grid living strategies, the project aims to provide residents with energy independence, water conservation techniques, and a framework for food production. The architectural design emphasizes harmony with nature while responding to the unique challenges of desert climates.

Sustainability and ecological integration characterize the project, as it promotes a low-impact lifestyle aided by the use of local materials and renewable energy resources. Each dwelling is designed to optimize natural light and ventilation, thereby reducing reliance on artificial cooling systems. The project layout facilitates communal interactions while maintaining individual privacy through strategic spatial organization.

Innovative Energy and Water Management

The project differentiates itself through its innovative energy and water management systems. Solar panels are extensively integrated into the rooflines of the buildings, ensuring that each unit harnesses solar energy to power daily activities. In tandem with solar energy, the project employs advanced water conservation practices. Rainwater harvesting systems and greywater recycling techniques are incorporated to maximize water efficiency and sustainability. This thorough approach to resource management supports self-sufficiency and minimizes environmental impact.

Architectural Elements and Material Usage

The architectural elements of "Desert Oasis" reflect a blend of modern design principles and traditional building techniques. The use of locally sourced materials, such as limestone, mud, and seashells, not only connects the structures to their environment but also enhances thermal performance and energy efficiency. The integration of wind catchers along with passive cooling methods to regulate indoor temperatures is a notable feature of the design. These elements are thoughtfully included to manage the harsh desert climate without compromising comfort and usability.

The overall project demonstrates a commitment to creating functional living spaces that foster community interaction while prioritizing individual privacy. The architectural plans, sections, and designs emphasize flexibility and adaptability in response to varied family needs and lifestyles.

For further exploration of the design intricacies and various architectural components, including in-depth architectural plans and sections associated with "Desert Oasis," readers are encouraged to review the project presentation. This detailed examination offers a comprehensive understanding of the innovative architectural ideas that define the project.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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