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Water Harvesting Lodge with Solar Roof and Wooden Frame

Authors:
Ryo Murata, Miho Takahashi, Minato Hashimoto, Wakana Takahashi
Water Harvesting Lodge with Solar Roof and Wooden Frame
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Capturing moisture from the arid air through an integrated water mesh system beneath a solar roof, the lodge provides a sustainable retreat that harmonizes with the surrounding desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Water mesh system captures moisture from the air for sustainable use.
02
Large solar roof camouflages the lodge from local wildlife.
03
Arch-shaped design maximizes views of the desert landscape.
04
Private terraces provide a buffer between indoor and outdoor spaces.
05
Common Hub serves as a central gathering area for visitors.

The Eco Lodge project is located in the expansive mega dunes of the UAE. It serves as a sustainable retreat that emphasizes a balance between nature and human habitation. Water is a key element in this design, with various innovative systems that address the challenges of the dry climate while supporting both people and local ecosystems.

Design Concept

Arch-shaped lodges are designed to offer wide views of the desert landscape. This layout encourages a connection between people and their environment. The large roof features solar energy generators, which provide renewable energy and also help disguise the structures from wildlife, aligning with the local ecological landscape.

Water Management

An advanced water mesh system is integrated within a wooden frame. It captures moisture from the air, such as dew and fog. This designed approach ensures a reliable supply of water for daily needs while supporting green spaces that attract local animals, enhancing biodiversity within the area.

Ecological Integration

The lodges implement a cooling system that uses cool desert winds to naturally regulate the indoor climate. The Common Hub serves as a gathering space for visitors, promoting social interaction and an immersive experience in nature. Efficient water management throughout the project aids in sustaining both human comfort and ecological health.

Material and Thermal Strategy

Wood is a primary material employed throughout the design, providing structural support and establishing a visual link to the natural surroundings. The roofs incorporate heat shield paint, which enhances energy efficiency. This approach effectively addresses the temperature changes typical in a desert setting.

Every lodge includes private terraces that act as a transition between indoor spaces and the vast desert outside. These spaces allow guests to experience the environment while also providing natural cooling solutions. The thoughtful integration of water and greenery throughout the design creates a unique and sustainable habitat for both residents and local wildlife.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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