Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Water Gardens and Integrated Photovoltaics in Sustainable Desert Housing

Author:
Sunggi Park
Water Gardens and Integrated Photovoltaics in Sustainable Desert Housing

Project in-detail

Integrating water gardens and solar-harvesting BIPV systems, the design creates a sustainable living environment tailored for desert conditions, promoting community interaction and thermal comfort in residential spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates water gardens as cooling features throughout the community.
02
Utilizes Building Integrated Photovoltaics for renewable energy generation.
03
Designed for optimal passive ventilation leveraging local wind patterns.
04
Landscaped with native vegetation to minimize water usage.
05
Constructed with durable laminated concrete for environmental resilience.

The Oasis Housing project is a well-considered architectural design focused on creating sustainable and livable spaces in a desert environment. Situated in an arid region, the project is structured to respond effectively to climate challenges while promoting community interaction and environmental sustainability. The design combines contemporary architectural practices with environmentally responsive strategies, resulting in a functional and cohesive living environment.

Integration of Water and Landscape One of the defining characteristics of the Oasis Housing project is its incorporation of water features, which serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. The design includes pools and water gardens strategically placed throughout the community, enhancing microclimates and providing cooling effects in the heat of the desert. This integration of water not only creates attractive communal spaces but also draws residents outdoors, facilitating social interaction and fostering a sense of community.

The landscape design features native vegetation, which contributes to local ecology and minimizes water usage. This strategic planting creates shaded areas that further enhance comfort levels for residents, allowing them to enjoy outdoor spaces during hot periods. The emphasis on landscape integration is a key aspect of the architectural approach, as it enhances the relationship between built and natural environments.

Sustainable Architectural Strategies The architectural design incorporates several sustainable practices aimed at reducing environmental impact. The use of Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) on rooftops enables the harnessing of solar energy, providing a renewable power source for the residences. Additionally, thermal mass design principles and strategically placed overhangs contribute to passive cooling, reducing reliance on mechanical systems.

Construction materials selected for the project include laminated concrete, aggregate pathways, and limestone, all chosen for their durability and relevance to the local climate. These materials contribute to a lower environmental footprint while ensuring the longevity and stability of the structures. Furthermore, the design facilitates natural ventilation through the careful orientation of buildings to take advantage of prevailing winds, a method that enhances indoor thermal comfort without mechanical intervention.

In summary, Oasis Housing exemplifies a thoughtful architectural response to its geographical context, emphasizing sustainability and community cohesion. Its unique integration of water, landscape, and innovative materials distinguishes it from conventional residential designs. Readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for more detailed insights about the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs to fully appreciate the depth of the project’s conceptual foundation.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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.

`

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

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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