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Woven Matting and Solar Threads Form a Sustainable Oasis in Desert Living

Authors:
Sarah Hejazin, Bisher Tabbaa
Woven Matting and Solar Threads Form a Sustainable Oasis in Desert Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing woven matting and integrated solar threads, this desert sanctuary optimizes natural resources while providing adaptable communal and private living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced woven matting for thermal regulation and airflow.
02
Incorporates solar threads in fabric for energy generation.
03
Features modular units allowing for flexible spatial configurations.
04
Employs passive cooling techniques to enhance indoor comfort.
05
Integrates natural courtyards to foster biodiversity and interaction.
The "Adaptable Oases" project is an architectural endeavor situated within a desert environment, aimed at addressing the unique challenges posed by such climates. The design focuses on creating a space that combines functionality with sustainability, serving as a modern sanctuary for travelers and residents alike.

The project encapsulates the essence of traditional desert architecture while integrating contemporary techniques and materials. It seeks to embody the spirit of historical oases that provided refuge and sustenance, presenting a harmonious blend of shelter, community space, and interaction with the surrounding landscape.

Innovative Use of Arched Forms

One of the distinctive features of "Adaptable Oases" is the use of arched forms throughout the structure. These arches are not merely aesthetic; they play a critical role in enhancing the building's performance. They facilitate airflow and provide shade, benefiting inhabitants during extreme weather conditions. Additionally, the design includes various communal and private areas that promote social interaction while respecting individual privacy.

The project also emphasizes adaptability, allowing the structures to be reconfigured based on user requirements. This flexibility ensures that the living spaces can evolve with the occupants, making them suitable for different purposes and group sizes. By incorporating modular elements, the design allows for easy modification and disassembly, reflecting a thoughtful approach to sustainability in architecture.

Sustainable Material Selection

Materiality is a key aspect of the "Adaptable Oases" project. The architecture employs a range of locally sourced materials, including woven matting, sustainable timber, concrete, and local stone. This choice not only minimizes the environmental impact but also supports local craftsmanship. The integration of solar threads within the fabric of the structure enables energy generation, while advanced water collection systems facilitate efficient resource management.

The project is structured to leverage natural resources, employing passive cooling techniques to create a comfortable indoor environment. Courtyards and open spaces encourage interaction with nature and enhance the overall experience of the site. This design approach reinforces the connection between the built environment and its natural surroundings, effectively merging architecture with the landscape.

For further insights into the "Adaptable Oases" project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Gaining access to these elements will provide a comprehensive understanding of the innovative architectural ideas that define this unique endeavor.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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