sustainable lodge complex proposal settles within abu dhabi desert

raleigh-based design studio habanero architecture has presented ‘sand|form array’, a lodge complex proposal situated in the desert landscape of abu dhabi. the main focus of the circular schemed project is to provide a unique hotel experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural scenery, the sand dunes, and observe the unique regional fauna, especially the arabian oryx. 

hub building
all images courtesy of habanero architecture

the structures by habanero architecture consist of a series of vertical brise-soleil feature elements that follow the shape of the lodge’s radial formation. using sustainable cross-laminated timber (CLT) technology, the units are meant to be built on-site, able to be removed and relocated. in order to ease the assembly even further, the roof system is proposed as a tensile membrane; light and easy to transport and install.

view from the mega dunes

as part of the active sustainable strategy of the proposal, each lodge and the hub building is supplied with an array of micro-crystal flexible solar panels integrated into the roofing system. a portable geothermal unit is to be provided for cooling and heating each lodge. in addition to the portable geothermal unit, the hub will also capture wind energy through the use of small-scale wind turbines in the central ‘oasis’ garden area.

lodges at night

the lodges and hub present an all-around covered deck design that gives the opportunity for visitors to enjoy the exterior views. the deck also acts as a passive sustainable design feature that provides shading to open areas. in combination with the triple glazed, argon filled & low-E glass fenestration, the vertical brise-soleil system and covered deck buffer will provide enough sun protection to better control heat transmission during the day. at night, the panoramic curved window system, along with the circular skylight located at the center of the lodges will provide the ultimate stargazing experience.

lodge interior

lobby area

stargazing views

Competition Board 4

floor plans

site + concept + axon + section

project info:

name: sand|form array
architecture office: habanero architecture
architects: joe lopez & alejandro mendoza

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