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Wind Tower and Lightweight Mesh Screens Enhance Sustainable Living in Desert Residential Design

Wind Tower and Lightweight Mesh Screens Enhance Sustainable Living in Desert Residential Design
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Utilizing a wind tower for natural ventilation and lightweight mesh screens for solar control, this residential design optimally integrates into its desert landscape while fostering community interaction and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a wind tower for natural ventilation without mechanical systems.
02
Incorporates lightweight mesh screens to effectively control solar exposure.
03
Features a circular layout that enhances spatial flow and community interaction.
04
Employs rainwater harvesting systems tailored for arid environments.
05
Integrates natural stone cladding for climate resilience and aesthetic cohesion.

### Overview

"L'escargot du désert" is situated in a desert environment and aims to integrate contemporary design principles with environmental sustainability. Spanning an area of 397 square meters, the building is organized over three levels, including the ground floor, first floor, and potential future expansions. Its design responds to the unique characteristics of the arid landscape, promoting comfort while ensuring stylistic relevance.

### Spatial Organization

The ground floor is fundamentally designed for public interaction, featuring a prominent entrance that leads to communal spaces with open-plan layouts, fostering social engagement. This level includes service areas such as a garage and utility rooms, alongside landscaped outdoor spaces that promote tranquility and accessibility from interior areas. The first floor is reserved for private quarters, comprising multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, and personal terraces, as well as shared living spaces that benefit from large windows, offering expansive views and ample natural light. Provisions for future expansions are incorporated to accommodate evolving housing needs.

### Materiality and Environmental Strategy

The selection of materials aligns with both aesthetic and functional objectives. Reinforced concrete provides structural integrity and thermal mass, crucial for managing indoor climates. Glass facades enhance visual transparency while allowing for passive solar gain, complemented by natural stone cladding that integrates the structure into its desert surroundings. Lightweight mesh screens serve to control light and create shaded areas, addressing heat mitigation effectively.

The design includes natural ventilation systems, notably a wind tower that facilitates airflow, enhancing livability without mechanical dependence. Water management strategies, such as rainwater harvesting and advanced drainage systems, underscore the project's commitment to sustainability in a desert context. Additionally, the integration of green roofs and terraces contributes to biodiversity and ecological resilience within the architectural framework.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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