2desert sawqana oasisDesert Sawqana Oasis is a sustainable resort in Karbala inspired by the Al-Sawqa’ana phenomenon, reflecting the contrast between its dry desert surface and its hidden life-filled interior. The design transforms natural rock fractures into geometric forms, creating an oasis centered on sustainability, passive cooling, and natural ventilation .
14Best in RegionBASE BEYONDAn adventure-focused desert retreat in Joshua Tree designed for trail runners, hikers, bikers, and climbers—amateurs to pros. The compound supports performance, training, gear, and recovery, with indoor pavilions, gear hubs, communal spaces, and cabins that integrate desert living with endurance and exploration.
2Runner-upA Traditional EscapeThe concept of this project is the integration of traditional elements of the local cultures with modern approaches and the structure is meant to counter the harsh environment of the desert as well as benefit from its unique climatic conditions.
13WinnerINNThe building, which was designed to create a landmark in the middle of the vast desert and attracts the attention of people even from afar, consists of accommodation units and social areas. The name of the project is inn because it evokes the inn culture in the past. It is aimed to preserve the vitality by keeping the tradition alive.
8WinnerTHE CACTUS FOREST Imagine a building with many barbed burrs like a cactus, which can condense and collect a lot of water to the "base" like a cactus. If these "bases" are connected in series, through some water pipes, water can be easily collected and stored.
10Editor's ChoiceCrumpleThis project investigates the housing crisis in Dadaab camp in Kenya. The manifesto in which the geometry reidentify the process of inhabitable foldable tensile structure. This manifold creates a three-dimensional space that allow refugees to designate their own spaces based on their own needs.
33Runner-upWa.he SanctuaryTHE AIM IS TO ACHIEVE A CAMOUFLAGE, WHILE MAINTAINING A DYNAMIC PRESENCE OF THE ARCHITECTURE BEING MERGED WITH THE LANDFORMS AROUND IT, THE BUILDING URGES THE HABITANT TO LIVE WITH ABSOLUTE CONNECTION WITH THE SCENERY.A NOTION FOR ALL INDIVIDUALS TO RECONNECT WITH NATURE IN ITS PUREST FORM, THUS ESTABLISHING A TRANSCENDENT CONNECTION WITH ONESELF ONCE AGAIN.
17Editor's ChoiceDesert RoseDesert Rose Cultural Centre is designed to be a specific and sustainable response to the building’s unique context. Deriving out of the idea of Marrakech culture, tradition and art and craft, the design and expanded program exemplifies the concept of nature and technology made visible and working in harmony.
