We are thrilled to announce that our project, Zellige Horizon, has won 1st place in the Morocco Oasis Retreat international architecture competition. Organized by Buildner in partnership with ArchDaily and initiated by the Alaoui family, the competition highlights innovative, sustainable, and culturally sensitive design approaches in extreme environments.
🔗 Official results: https://architecturecompetitions.com/moroccooasis
The competition attracted a large number of submissions from architects and designers worldwide, each exploring new ways to integrate architecture into the Moroccan desert landscape. Participants were challenged to design a retreat that harmonizes with the natural environment while embracing Morocco’s cultural heritage and fostering a vision for sustainable desert living.
Our Vision for Morocco Oasis Retreat: Zellige Horizon
Zellige Horizon responds to Morocco's unique environmental and cultural context. The design reinterprets traditional vernacular architecture, embracing a modular courtyard system that adapts to the landscape while fostering community and environmental harmony.
Key Features of the Project
Adaptive courtyard system that naturally regulates temperature and enhances social interactions
Integration of Moroccan craftsmanship, including handmade Zellige tiles and earthen construction techniques
Sustainable water management, incorporating rainwater collection, greywater reuse, and xeriscape landscaping
Thermal massing and passive ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling
Off-grid energy solutions, supporting sustainable retreat operations
Each aspect of Zellige Horizon is designed to respect the desert’s natural rhythms while creating an immersive retreat experience rooted in local traditions and contemporary sustainability principles.
The Team Behind the Design
This project was led by Petr Kousal and Ondrej Chudy, partners of TMD, with support from junior team members Maria Dvorska and David Ludvik. Their combined expertise in architecture, visualization, and environmental design was instrumental in shaping the project’s vision.
“At TMD, we believe that sustainable architecture should not only respond to the environment but also tell a story. Zellige Horizon is a testament to that philosophy—bridging local traditions with contemporary, responsible design.“ — Petr Kousal, Partner, TMD
Judging Criteria and Feedback
Submissions were evaluated on their architectural clarity, sustainability, material use, integration with the environment, spatial experience, and visual storytelling.
The jury included representatives from some of the world’s leading architecture firms, including Zaha Hadid Architects, O’DonnellBrown, Field Object Lab, SAOTA, Asociación Semillas, Patkau Architects, Fala Atelier, Francesca Perani Enterprise, and SASAKI.
"Zellige Horizon is a project integrating architecture, sustainability, and cultural heritage within a natural landscape. The design follows a circular spatial hierarchy, balancing private and communal spaces while ensuring functional efficiency. The layout emphasizes pedestrian permeability and a dedicated service circulation route. Sustainable strategies include water conservation, passive cooling, and locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact.Traditional Moroccan construction methods are combined with modern techniques to enhance durability and thermal performance. The project incorporates wellness, cultural, and social spaces, supporting both guests and local communities. Positioned within a coastal terrain, it harmonizes built and natural environments, prioritizing ecological sensitivity and long-term resilience."
Looking Ahead
Recognition in the Morocco Oasis Retreat Competition further reinforces TMD’s commitment to innovative, sustainable architecture. Our team continues to explore off-grid retreats, eco-resorts, and regenerative communities that balance design, culture, and environmental responsibility.
A full in-depth article exploring the Zellige Horizon concept, inspirations, and sustainable strategies will be published soon.
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