INN: A Sanctuary of Sustainable Desert Architecture

Designed to serve as a landmark in the vast Libyan desert, INN is a modern interpretation of traditional desert inns—merging cultural heritage with sustainable desert architecture. Built as a retreat center, it offers both accommodation and therapeutic facilities for individuals and groups seeking escape from urban exhaustion. The project reimagines seclusion not only as an individual act but as a shared human experience, structured around six wellness domains: spiritual, physical, emotional, professional, intellectual, and mental.

Traditional Libyan motifs meet modern prefab framing in this modular desert retreat unit.

Interior plan with meditation-focused skylight designed for spiritual calm from dawn to dusk.

Architectural Concept

The design borrows from Libya’s traditional buried courtyard typology. Using the natural slope of the desert, social spaces are partially sunken and shaded with raised walls, forming a protective enclosure from the harsh sun and sandstorms. Skylights bring in soft northern light, while parapets and architectural barriers protect from wind-borne sand. Bladeless wind turbines quietly generate renewable energy without disturbing the desert’s fauna or guests.

Adaptive Design Strategies

Shading walls cast cooling shadows throughout the day, allowing the central courtyard to serve varied purposes based on sunlight and temperature. From tranquil morning yoga and meditation sessions to afternoon exhibitions and communal desert meals, and finally to stargazing by the fire under pristine desert skies—the courtyard is the emotional core of the project.

Program & Facilities

Ground Level (0.00): Yoga and spa areas, sand therapy, indoor/outdoor dining, workshops, and exhibition zones.
+4 Level: Circular seating areas, bar service, and preparation zones for desert activities.
+7 & +10 Levels: Accommodation units designed as single, double, and suite rooms. Each is fitted with traditional Libyan design motifs—floor beds, patterned textiles, and soft lighting—offering a modernized sense of retreat.

A contextual model of the retreat embedded in the Libyan desert’s terrain and topography.

The retreat structure integrates with the land, shielded by terrain and shaded walls.

Under starlit skies, the retreat glows—framing a celestial experience within the desert.

Material & Construction

The structure utilizes the earthbag system—sustainable and thermal-insulating walls made from local sand, clay, and gravel. Reinforced with steel carriers, the system keeps interiors cool while withstanding the desert’s intense climate. Materials blend adobe with contemporary steel detailing, balancing vernacular craftsmanship with resilient design.

Cultural Integration

INN is more than a shelter—it’s a cultural catalyst. Local communities engage through culinary demonstrations, traditional weaving workshops, and exhibitions. This dual focus on sustainability and heritage offers job opportunities while revitalizing fading traditions in a modern framework.

Regional Context

The project site is adjacent to historic rock art and camping routes, surrounded by active safari trails. By positioning INN as both a retreat and an anchor point for cultural and ecological tourism, the project reconnects humans with land, history, and self.

Project Credits: Esma Nur Erdeğer, SATI KUCUK, Uzuk Charyyeva, Esra Öcal Winner Entry of Cast Away