The dunes of the Siwa Oasis

Siwa Oasis, Egypt

Dunes

Get the briefSee the winners
Winners4Shortlisted14Jurors6

01BriefDunes

A wellness camp in the Siwa Oasis

Design a wellness camp that belongs to the desert, built from what the oasis already gives.

Get the full brief

Siwa lies deep in Egypt’s Western Desert, between the Qattara Depression and the Great Sand Sea. People have lived here since the tenth millennium BC, and the oasis still carries the Temple of Amun, the Temple of the Oracle, the ruins of the Shali fortress and the Mountain of the Dead.

The competition asked for a wellness camp built on ecological principles and on the materials of the place itself — karshif, palm and wood — with space for meditation, workshops, sport and gathering, and with holistic well-being at its centre.

02WinnersDunes

The winners

Selected by our jury from all entries.

Full poster of Siwa RingHover to zoom · click to enlarge
01First prizeWinner

Siwa Ring

“My work reflects a commitment to excellence and a dedication to creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.”
Designed by
Maximiliano ZarewskyMercedes Risso Patron
Architects from Argentina working between architecture, spatial installations and design.
Argentina
01First prizeWinner · Interview

Siwa Ring

Maximiliano ZarewskyMercedes Risso Patron
Argentina

Concept story

The oases of the Sahara, depicted in ancient texts as a lifeline amidst the vast desert expanse, were pivotal hubs for trade and navigation in antiquity, forming a vital network at strategic intervals across the desert landscape. Among these oases, Siwa stands out as a beacon of historical significance and natural beauty, drawing travelers and explorers throughout the ages. In the heart of one such oasis, nestled south of the city of Siwa, the Siwa Ring emerges as a contemporary reinterpretation of this infrastructure. Its design, rooted in simplicity and functionality, pays homage to the traditional architecture and nomadic lifestyle of ancient travelers while offering modern amenities for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The structure

The centre’s striking modular wooden structure, arranged in a circular layout above the oasis, echoes the organic forms found in nature, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. Draped entirely in linen fabric, a material renowned for its porous nature, the structure provides ample sun protection and natural ventilation, reminiscent of the ancient tents that once dotted the Sahara landscape.

The courtyard

At its core lies an expansive internal courtyard, spanning 80 metres in diameter, serving as a sanctuary for stargazing and various activities shielded from the desert winds. The modular construction, characterised by sockets and movable parts, affords the centre flexibility and adaptability, catering to the ever-changing needs of its visitors. Each module features fully movable wings, allowing for the expansion of covered spaces and the creation of diverse environments, from shaded retreats to open-air sanctuaries.

Impermanence

Echoing the nomadic spirit of old, the centre embodies a sense of impermanence, capable of being disassembled and relocated to the next oasis as needed. By leaving behind only the karshif stone foundations, the space remains open for future endeavours, ensuring the continuity of the holistic and vernacular philosophy embedded within the desert culture.

Full poster of Aligned to StarsHover to zoom · click to enlarge
02Second prizeWinner

Aligned to Stars

“My recent work has been centered on exploring the relationship between architecture and the natural environment.”
Designed by
Mohammad Abdulmoniem HatemAmira Sabry
Egyptian architects whose work blends modern aesthetics with environmental solutions.
Egypt
02Second prizeWinner · Interview

Aligned to Stars

Mohammad Abdulmoniem HatemAmira Sabry
Egypt

Concept story

Inspired by ancient civilizations that saw the night sky as a vast black fabric with stars as holes, the living observatory at Siwa aligns with the minimal movement of circumpolar stars, especially Polaris. By focusing on stars that appear nearly stationary, the observatory ensures consistent celestial views.

Architecture and the cosmos

Openings and structures are designed to harmonize with these stars’ paths, blending architecture with the cosmos. This innovative approach celebrates ancient myths and the night sky’s beauty, providing an educational and awe-inspiring experience year-round.

Full poster of DunesHover to zoom · click to enlarge
03Editor’s choiceWinner

Dunes

“Life is about self-discovery, just as architecture reveals life. I aim to enter international competitions to explore different cultures and urban environments.”
Designed by
Mohamed MouradDonia KhalafallahShahd TaherPhilopater AymanSalma MohsenRawan Alaa El-deen
A team of six Egyptian architecture students and graduates.
Egypt
03Editor’s choiceWinner · Interview

Dunes

Mohamed MouradDonia KhalafallahShahd TaherPhilopater AymanSalma MohsenRawan Alaa El-deen
Egypt

Concept story

The dunes of Siwa offer more than just scenic vistas, they hold cultural significance as well. They have been an integral part of the local Berber culture for centuries, influencing traditions, therefore we drew the main idea from the sand dunes which are the most significant element.

The camp

Every detail of the wellness camp is carefully designed to blend in with the environment and is focused on promoting relaxation, using local materials such as palm trunks, indigenous trees and karsheef, to preserve the identity in Siwa.

The path

Our inspiration led us to design a central path that extends along the landscape, providing visual and easy access to the different spaces along the project, all of this based on contour lines. This project aims to offer visitors a place where they can relax and lead a healthy lifestyle.

Full poster of The DemiluneHover to zoom · click to enlarge
04Editor’s choiceWinner

The Demilune

“Study neurodevelopmental disorders is my goal and to design specialized architecture for children with these conditions to enhance their well-being.”
Designed by
Mubasshira MaahjabeenMohammad Aashraful
Architects from Bangladesh with a focus on community and well-being.
Bangladesh
04Editor’s choiceWinner · Interview

The Demilune

Mubasshira MaahjabeenMohammad Aashraful
Bangladesh

Concept story

The project, named Demilune, derives its inspiration from the half-moon and the captivating cultivation processes in the desert. This competition allowed us to explore the desert way of life, their built environment, and local materials. We aimed to create something that remains close to the earth, standing out without disrupting the harmony of the desert.

The design

Our design integrates traditional Siwan architecture with the half-moon cultivation pattern on the landscape. This approach ensures that Demilune not only respects but enhances the natural and cultural context of the desert.

03ShortlistedDunes

Shortlisted projects

The fourteen projects the jury reviewed in the final round.

Amzaran by Basmala Ahmed · Basant Shrief Atyia · Sara Reda Ahmed · Yasmen Abed · Hassn Mohamed · Haidy IbrahimAmzaranBasmala Ahmed · Basant Shrief Atyia · Sara Reda Ahmed · Yasmen Abed · Hassn Mohamed · Haidy IbrahimEgyptSolstice by Hana Mohamed · Ehab El-sayed · Muhammad Fathy · Mohamed Badawy · Sama Mohamed · Ahmed Hossam · Mostafa MohamedSolsticeHana Mohamed · Ehab El-sayed · Muhammad Fathy · Mohamed Badawy · Sama Mohamed · Ahmed Hossam · Mostafa MohamedEgyptAligned to Stars by Mohammad Abdulmoniem Hatem · Amira SabryAligned to StarsMohammad Abdulmoniem Hatem · Amira SabryEgyptDunes by Mohamed Mourad · Donia Khalafallah · Shahd Taher · Philopater Ayman · Salma Mohsen · Rawan Alaa El-deenDunesMohamed Mourad · Donia Khalafallah · Shahd Taher · Philopater Ayman · Salma Mohsen · Rawan Alaa El-deenEgyptRahal by Hussien Arfa · Walid Ahmed · Mahmoud Ashraf · Abdelrahman Hassan · Abdelrahman RashadRahalHussien Arfa · Walid Ahmed · Mahmoud Ashraf · Abdelrahman Hassan · Abdelrahman RashadEgyptChannel Three by Abdelrahman HamdyChannel ThreeAbdelrahman HamdyEgyptSiwa Ring by Maximiliano Zarewsky · Mercedes Risso PatronSiwa RingMaximiliano Zarewsky · Mercedes Risso PatronArgentinaZenamid by Nour Omar · Ramez SamehZenamidNour Omar · Ramez SamehEgyptSerenity Oasis by Mukuta · Sally · MarwaSerenity OasisMukuta · Sally · MarwaIndonesiaThe Demilune by Mubasshira Maahjabeen · Mohammad AashrafulThe DemiluneMubasshira Maahjabeen · Mohammad AashrafulBangladeshWellness Camp by Md Rakibul Hasan · Mumtahinah MomoWellness CampMd Rakibul Hasan · Mumtahinah MomoBangladeshArches of Serenity by Rohit BelvikarArches of SerenityRohit BelvikarIndiaA Journey Through the Sands of Time by Ali Zeyad · Aeshah ShabeebA Journey Through the Sands of TimeAli Zeyad · Aeshah ShabeebIraqCamp Siwa by Julian Cezar A. ViernesCamp SiwaJulian Cezar A. ViernesPhilippines
Poster previewHover to zoom · click to enlarge
ShortlistedAmzaranBasmala Ahmed · Basant Shrief Atyia · Sara Reda Ahmed · Yasmen Abed · Hassn Mohamed · Haidy Ibrahim

04JuryDunes

Our jury

Each jury is carefully selected, bringing together professionals whose expertise relates directly to the brief.

Portrait of Ilse MartinezIlse MartinezLighting designer, Licht Kunst Licht
Portrait of Lucia OberfrancováLucia OberfrancováResearch assistant & teacher, Hochschule Wismar
Portrait of Liam Hayward-MillsLiam Hayward-MillsArchitectural project manager & designer
Portrait of Ruben JodarRuben JodarProfessor, Hochschule Wismar
Portrait of Mariam KorachyMariam KorachyFounder, Mariam Korachy Architects
Portrait of Hartwig DuensingHartwig DuensingFounder, Duensing Architekten

05CoursesDunes

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Open the brief

DUNES

Architecture Competition

Brief

Siwa Oasis

  • Siwa Oasis is an urban oasis in Egypt. It is located between the Qattara Depression and the Great Sand Sea in the Western Desert.

  • Tracing its roots to the 10th millennium BC, boasts an enchanting history. it houses several archaeological landmarks dating back to the Pharaonic and Roman era, such as the Temple of Amun, the Temple of the Treasury, The remains of the Shali Ghadi fortress and The Mountain of the Dead offering a glimpse into its rich past.

  • The Challenge is to design a Wellness camp experience that integrates ecological design principles with natural materials like Karshif, wood, and palm trees. The camp aims to promote holistic well-being through a diverse program including meditation, workshops, sports activities, and entertainment.

Keywords

Meditation - Natural Lighting - Protection - Materials - Sustainable Design

Winners

FIRST PRIZE SIWA RING​​ Maximiliano Zarewsky - Mercedes Risso Patron Argentina

FIRST PRIZE

SIWA RING​​

Maximiliano Zarewsky - Mercedes Risso Patron
Argentina

SECOND PRIZE ALIGNED TO STARS​​ Mohammad Abdulmoniem - Shafira Zahro Egypt

SECOND PRIZE

ALIGNED TO STARS​​

Mohammad Abdulmoniem - Shafira Zahro
Egypt

EDITOR CHOICE PRIZE DUNES​​​ Mohamed Mourad - Donia Khalafallah - Shahd Taher - Philopater Ayman - Salma Mohsen - Rawan Alaa El-deen Egypt

EDITOR CHOICE PRIZE

DUNES​​​

Mohamed Mourad - Donia Khalafallah - Shahd Taher - Philopater Ayman - Salma Mohsen - Rawan Alaa El-deen
Egypt

EDITOR CHOICE PRIZE THE DEMILUNE​​ Mubasshira Maahjabeen - Mohammad Aashraful Bangladesh

EDITOR CHOICE PRIZE

THE DEMILUNE​​

Mubasshira Maahjabeen - Mohammad Aashraful
Bangladesh

Shorlist

AMZARAN​​​ Basmala Ahmed - Basant Shrief Atyia - Sara Reda Ahmed - yasmen Abed - Hassn Mohamed - Haidy Ibrahim Egypt

AMZARAN​​​

Basmala Ahmed - Basant Shrief Atyia - Sara Reda Ahmed - yasmen Abed - Hassn Mohamed - Haidy Ibrahim
Egypt

SOLSTICE​ Hana Mohamed - Ehab El-sayed - Muhammad Fathy - Mohamed Badawy - Sama mohamed - Ahmed Hossam - Mostafa Mohamed Egypt

SOLSTICE​

Hana Mohamed - Ehab El-sayed - Muhammad Fathy - Mohamed Badawy - Sama mohamed - Ahmed Hossam - Mostafa Mohamed
Egypt

ALIGNED TO STARS​​ Mohammad Abdulmoniem - Shafira Zahro Egypt

ALIGNED TO STARS​​

Mohammad Abdulmoniem - Shafira Zahro
Egypt

DUNES​​​ Mohamed Mourad - Donia Khalafallah - Shahd Taher - Philopater Ayman - Salma Mohsen - Rawan Alaa El-deen Egypt

DUNES​​​

Mohamed Mourad - Donia Khalafallah - Shahd Taher - Philopater Ayman - Salma Mohsen - Rawan Alaa El-deen
Egypt

RAHAL​ Hussien Arfa - Walid ahmed - Hussein arfa - Mahmoud Ashraf - Abdelrahman Hassan - Abdelrahman Rashad Egypt

RAHAL​

Hussien Arfa - Walid ahmed - Hussein arfa - Mahmoud Ashraf - Abdelrahman Hassan - Abdelrahman Rashad
Egypt

CHANNEL THREE​ Abdelrahman Hamdy Egypt

CHANNEL THREE​

Abdelrahman Hamdy Egypt

SIWA RING​​ Maximiliano Zarewsky - Mercedes Risso Patron Argentina

SIWA RING​​

Maximiliano Zarewsky - Mercedes Risso Patron
Argentina

ZENAMID​​​​​​ Nour Omar - Ramez Sameh Egypt

ZENAMID​​​​​​

Nour Omar - Ramez Sameh
Egypt

SERENITY OASIS​ Mukuta - Sally - Marwa Indonesia

SERENITY OASIS​

Mukuta - Sally - Marwa
Indonesia

THE DEMILUNE​​ Mubasshira Maahjabeen - Mohammad Aashraful Bangladesh

THE DEMILUNE​​

Mubasshira Maahjabeen - Mohammad Aashraful
Bangladesh

WELLNESS CAMP​​​​​ Md Rakibul Hasan - Mumtahinah Momo Bangladesh

WELLNESS CAMP​​​​​

Md Rakibul Hasan - Mumtahinah Momo
Bangladesh

ARCHES OF SERENITY​​​​ Rohit Belvikar India

ARCHES OF SERENITY​​​​

Rohit Belvikar India

A JOUNREY THROUGH THE SANDS OF TIME​​​ Ali Zeyad - Aeshah Shabeeb Iraq

A JOUNREY THROUGH THE SANDS OF TIME​​​

Ali Zeyad - Aeshah Shabeeb
Iraq

CAMP SIWA​ Julian Cezar A. Viernes Philippines

CAMP SIWA​

Julian Cezar A. Viernes Philippines

OUR JURY

Each jury is carefully selected, bringing together professionals whose expertise directly relates to the focus of the competition.

Read more

  • Ilse martinez

    Lighting Designer at Foster + Partners

  • Lucia Oberfrancová

    Research assistent & teacher at Hochschule Wismar

  • Liam Hayward-Mills

    Architectural project manager & designer


  • Ruben Jodar

    Professor at Hochschule wismar


  • Mariam Korachy

    Founder of Mariam Korachy Architects

  • Hartwig Duensing

    Founder of Duensing Architekten


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