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Woven Facades and Hemp Insulation Create Sustainable Lodges in the Desert Landscape

Authors:
Isabelle Grahlke, Jil Schneider, Seher Ulusoy
Woven Facades and Hemp Insulation Create Sustainable Lodges in the Desert Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted from locally sourced palm wood and integrated with woven facades, these lodges harmoniously blend into the desert landscape while offering sustainable accommodations for visitors to experience the region's natural beauty.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced palm wood, enhancing sustainability and regional connection.
02
Incorporates woven facades that provide natural insulation while blending with the desert environment.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame that optimizes aerodynamics and natural ventilation.
04
Features fog nets for innovative water collection, addressing arid climate challenges.
05
Community hub designed as a social gathering space, fostering visitor interactions with the landscape.
The Desert Waves project is an architectural endeavor designed to create an ecological network of visitor lodges within the Arabian Oryx Protected Area. This project embodies the principles of sustainable tourism while respecting and enhancing the desert's unique environment. The primary function of these lodges is to provide comfortable accommodations for visitors, allowing them to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this region.

At its core, the project represents a harmonious blend of architecture and nature, showcasing a commitment to environmental stewardship. The design integrates seamlessly into the landscape, with the fluid forms of the lodges echoing the gentle curves of sand dunes. This integration not only minimizes the visual impact on the surroundings but also enhances the experience of those who visit. Each lodge is thoughtfully situated to provide stunning views of the vast desert, encouraging occupants to connect with nature and appreciate the serene environment.

The architectural approach taken in this project emphasizes the use of local materials, which reinforces sustainability. Regional wood, particularly sourced from palm trees, serves as the primary building material for the lodges, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Woven palm leaves are incorporated into the facade, providing not only insulation but also contributing to the aesthetic quality of the design. The use of hemp fleece further enhances thermal efficiency, while clay and straw serve as effective insulation materials that connect the building to local construction traditions.

In addition to the individual lodges, the project includes a communal hub that functions as a gathering space for visitors. This central facility is designed to foster social interaction and community, encompassing areas for dining, relaxation, and cultural exchange. The canopy-like roofs of this hub mimic the undulating forms of the desert landscape, incorporating solar panels into their design to harness renewable energy. This attention to energy efficiency contributes significantly to the project's overall sustainability goals.

Unique design approaches characterize the Desert Waves project, particularly in its consideration of natural elements and energy use. The orientation of the lodges is carefully planned to maximize passive solar gains and natural ventilation, creating comfortable internal environments without reliance on artificial heating or cooling systems. Additionally, the innovative use of fog nets for water collection demonstrates a forward-thinking solution to water scarcity in arid environments, promoting responsible resource management.

The visual aesthetics of the Desert Waves project reflect not only a modern architectural language but also a deeper connection to the local context. The choice of materials and the forms of the structures pay homage to the cultural and environmental heritage of the Arabian region, creating a cohesive identity that resonates with both visitors and locals alike. This project serves as a model for how architecture can respond creatively and responsibly to environmental challenges while fostering a sense of place.

To gain a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and design details, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. Engaging with the architectural designs and ideas behind Desert Waves can provide additional insights into this thoughtful and innovative approach to sustainable architecture in a desert landscape.
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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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