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INTERNATIONAL RENDERING COMPETITION

BEYOND EARTH 2024

RESULTS!

The Winners!

BEYOND EARTH 2024

Allen Porras

Philippines

Xuanyu Hu & Sihan Chen

China

Amey Patil, Viraj Junjani & Prachiti kini

India

First Prize Winners

Allen Porras

Philippines

Second Prize Winners

Xuanyu Hu & Sihan Chen

China

Xuanyu, an architecture student, and Sihan, who transitioned from civil engineering to landscape architecture, share a passion for technology and spatial design. They believe that their combined expertise and creativity can offer innovative ideas for urban planning and architectural design. Xuanyu specializes in spatial structure and aesthetics, while Sihan brings valuable insights into environmental adaptability and sustainability.

Introduction

Our team consists of two juniors: Xuanyu, an architecture student, and Sihan, who switched from civil engineering to landscape architecture.We are passionate about technology and spatial design, and believe that our expertise and creativity can provide new ideas for urban planning and architectural design.Xuanyu specializes in spatial structure and aesthetics, while Sihan has insights into environmental adaptability and sustainability.

This image shows an envisioned Martian “Pioneer Base”, a futuristic human settlement designed to provide a sustainable living environment for the first Martian explorers. The base has been designed to take into account the extreme climatic and geographic conditions of Mars, using advanced building technologies and materials to ensure the safety and comfort of its inhabitants. The context of this design reflects the human ambition to explore Mars and the thoughtful consideration of a future space habitat. Through this design, we hope to build a self-sufficient and sustainable human community on Mars.

Design Concept

Our project is trying to create an evolutionary urban solution to ensure a safe, comfortable environment for Mars explorers, featuring a modular design for adaptable expansion, 3D printing with Martian materials for efficient construction, radiation protection via special materials and a double-layered structure, a self-sufficient ecosystem with water recycling, air purification, and food production, solar and nuclear energy for a stable power supply, and living spaces that mimic Earth's environment with controlled air pressure, temperature, humidity, and natural light, all with a focus on sustainability to minimize environmental impact and support long-term habitation.

Architectural Innovation

The key to my Mars Habitat design standing out in the competition was its innovation and break from traditional architectural concepts. The design utilizes a modular structure that allows for expansion and adaptation as needed to accommodate changing mission requirements. By utilizing soil and rock from the Martian mainland as raw materials through 3D printing technology, it not only reduces the need to transport materials from Earth, but also improves the efficiency and environmental friendliness of the building process.

The design takes special consideration of radiation on the Martian surface, providing effective radiation protection through the use of special materials and a double-layered eggshell structure. In addition, the interior of the habitat was designed with a self-sufficient ecosystem, including water circulation, air purification and food production, to minimize dependence on Earth's supplies.

Sustainability is woven throughout the design, from the choice of materials to the use of energy, to minimize the impact on the Martian environment and ensure the viability of long-term habitation. Together, these features form a Mars habitat design solution that is both practical and innovative, not only meeting the basic needs of Mars explorers, but also demonstrating the progress and potential of humanity in the field of space exploration.
Sustainability and Functionality

The Mars Habitat design is self-sufficient in materials through modularization and 3D printing techniques using native Martian soil and rock, while reducing the need to transport materials from Earth. Special materials and a double-layered eggshell structure provide effective radiation protection to ensure the safety of the occupants. Self-sufficient ecosystems, including water recycling, air purification, and food production, reduce dependence on Earth for supplies. Solar panels and nuclear power generation strategies ensure a steady supply of energy. Living spaces mimic the Earth's environment, controlling air pressure, temperature and humidity, and bringing in natural light to enhance occupant comfort. The overall design emphasizes sustainability, reducing the impact on the Martian environment and ensuring the viability of long-term habitation.

Creative Process

Our design process begins with an in-depth study of the Martian environment and human habitation needs, followed by conceptualizing a habitat concept that is both innovative and functional, then exploring different design options through sketches and preliminary models, followed by detailed design and simulation analysis using sketchup, CAD, AI, photoshop, and renderer to ensure that all elements of functionality and sustainability have been fully considered, followed by iterative design to continually optimize structures, materials and systems, and finally the production of final renderings to visually demonstrate the realization of this futuristic and challenging concept.
Community Impact and Vision for Mars.
Our Mars Habitat is designed to provide a safe, comfortable and self-sufficient living environment for future Martian settlers, with innovative modular structures and 3D printing technology to localize materials and build efficiently, and radiation protection and self-sufficient ecosystems to ensure the health of inhabitants and the sustainable use of resources. The living space, which mimics the Earth's environment with corresponding recreational spaces, enhances the quality of life and promotes mental health. These designs not only have a positive impact on Mars settlers, but also provide a replicable model for sustainable communities beyond the Earth, demonstrating humanity's ability to adapt and prosper in new environments.

Inspirations and Challenges

We would like to thank our instructor Xuyi for inspiring our designs and providing us with many ideas and solutions when we encountered problems.
In the process of production, due to the avant-garde conception in the early stage, we lacked the information and materials to which we could refer for the production of the rendering. In order to solve this problem, we made our own models and found many materials and pictures related to the natural conditions of Mars, and rendered the final result according to these models and materials.

Reflections on Winning

Being recognized with the Beyond Earth Architectural Rendering Competition award is an immense honor and a testament to the hard work and dedication that went into creating a visionary concept for Mars habitation. It feels incredibly rewarding to know that the design is appreciated for its innovation and potential to contribute to the future of space exploration and human settlement beyond Earth. This recognition not only validates the approach and ideas but also inspires continued pursuit of excellence in pushing the boundaries of architectural design for sustainable living in extraterrestrial environments. It's a proud moment that fuels the passion for creating designs that could one day support life on Mars and other celestial bodies.

Third Prize Winners

Amey Patil, Viraj Junjani & Prachiti kini

India

Viraj Junjani is an architecture student at Dr. Baliram Hiray College of Architecture and a space enthusiast. His interest in space inspires his design work. His design process combines creativity and practicality, and this experience has helped him understand how architecture can contribute to human life beyond Earth. He aims to create designs that are both innovative and functional.
Amey Patil is an architecture student at Dr. Baliram Hiray College of Architecture with a strong passion for innovative design and sustainable solutions. He has built a solid foundation in architectural principles while gaining expertise in integrating advanced technologies like VR/AR and 3D printing. This approach enables him to develop creative solutions for complex environments, including extraterrestrial habitats. His work emphasizes merging functionality with aesthetics while addressing sustainability, adaptability, and human well-being. Through these efforts, Amey aims to contribute to shaping the future of architecture both on Earth and beyond.
Prachiti Kini is currently studying architecture at Hiray College of Architecture in Bandra. She has a deep passion for designing and a keen interest in the fascinating field of space architecture. Prachiti aims to combine creativity and innovation to explore new frontiers in architectural design.

Introduction

Hello, I am Viraj Junjani, an architecture student at Dr. Baliram Hiray College Of Architecture and a Space Enthusiast. My interest in Space inspires my design work. My design process combines creativity and practicality and this experience helped me understand how architecture can contribute to human life beyond Earth. I aim to create designs that are both innovative and functional.
Hello, my name is Amey Patil, and I am an architecture student at Dr. Baliram Hiray College of Architecture with a strong passion for innovative design and sustainable solutions. I have built a solid foundation in architectural principles while gaining expertise in integrating advanced technologies like VR/AR and 3D printing. This approach enables me to develop creative solutions for complex environments, including extraterrestrial habitats. My work emphasizes merging functionality with aesthetics while addressing sustainability, adaptability, and human well-being. Through these efforts, I aim to contribute to shaping the future of architecture both on Earth and beyond.
Youtube channel: Space arch (https://youtube.com/@space-arch-q5b?si=veH_TesRe9Lz-Wy6)
Instagram: space_arch11 (https://www.instagram.com/space_arch11?igsh=Z3Bmb2thaDY1ZGJ1)
My name is Prachiti Kini, and I am currently studying architecture at Hiray College of Architecture in Bandra. I have a deep passion for designing and a keen interest in the fascinating field of space architecture. I aim to combine creativity and innovation to explore new frontiers in architectural design.

Design Concept

Our Martian habitat, "SAHOME" (Space Agro Habitat On Martian Environment"), is a self-sustaining, modular living system tailored to support human life on Mars. The design combines innovative technology, sustainable practices, and a human-centred approach to ensure safety, comfort, and functionality in the harsh Martian environment.
Key Features:
• Modular Space Planning: Flexible and adaptable design that allows for easy expansion and reconfiguration to meet evolving needs.
• Advanced Materials: Use of high-tech materials like Martian regolith for exterior walls and inflatable modules for lightweight, scalable construction.
• Sustainable Shape: A design optimized for energy efficiency and minimal resource usage, tailored to the unique Martian environment.
• Self-Sustainable Life Support: Integrated systems for water, air, and waste recycling, ensuring long-term autonomy and reducing reliance on Earth-based supplies.
Ideas:
• Community: The design fosters social interaction, collaboration, and a sense of belonging among crew members, ensuring psychological well-being and cohesion.
• Resilience: Engineered to withstand the harsh conditions of Mars—low gravity, extreme temperatures, and radiation—while maintaining safety, comfort, and long-term habitability.

Architectural Innovation

The design of “SAHOME” is an exciting new take on architecture, specially crafted to tackle the unique challenges of living on Mars. By combining the latest technologies with eco-friendly strategies, this innovative concept is leading us into a wonderful era of space architecture. It brings together practicality, durability, and a focus on human needs, making the dream of living on Mars feel more achievable and inviting!

Sustainability and Functionality

Our design focuses on sustainability and functionality for Mars. We address the extreme conditions with systems that ensure self-sufficiency and long-term viability.
• Resource Efficiency: Maximizing resource use.
• Closed-Loop Systems: Creating interconnected systems.
Food Production: Sustainable methods for growing food.
• Radiation and Temperature Protection: Safeguarding against harsh conditions using Mars Regolith.
• Adaptability and Scalability: Flexibility to grow and adapt as needed for further expansion.
• Self-Sufficient Energy: Powered by dynamic solar arrays and advanced storage, ensuring continuous energy supply without reliance on Earth.
• Interactive Space: A flexible communal area for collaboration, research, and real-time communication with Earth and Recreational Area.
• Privacy for Each Crew Member: Ergonomically designed private quarters, providing rest and protection against Martian radiation.
• Communication Room: A hub for seamless communication with Earth and other colonies, ensuring constant connectivity.

Creative Process

1. Scientific and Detail Research and Understanding the Challenges:
We have been diving deep into the fascinating environment of Mars—exploring things like its gravity, atmosphere, temperature, radiation levels, and available resources. By getting to know these unique challenges, we have shaped our design philosophy around three key ideas: sustainability, resilience, and adaptability. We are excited to create solutions that can thrive in such an extraordinary setting!
2. Conceptual Ideation:
• Modular Design: The Ventral Inflatable Module offers quick deployment, flexibility, and enhanced durability, promoting both privacy and teamwork.
• Resource Efficiency: Utilizes in-situ resources to minimize Earth dependency.
• Human-Centered Design: Focuses on mental and physical health through private and communal spaces.
• AI & Robotics: Employed for construction, maintenance, and habitat management.
3. Preliminary Design Layout:
We developed multiple layout options. We explored modular, inflatable, scalable designs that could adapt to the changing needs of Mars missions. Circular modules were chosen for their maximised space efficiency, ensure stability against Martian winds and seismic activity, evenly distribute pressure, and are easily constructed using 3D printing for enhanced durability and resilience.
4. Refining the Design:
After selecting a base concept, ("Jezro Crater") we refined the design through iterative modelling. We focused on which place on Mars has an abundance of resources including solar energy capture, minerals, water recycling, and space for food production. Detailed consideration was given to integrating privacy, social spaces, and essential facilities like the rover garage and communication room.
5. Technological Integration
We researched advanced technologies to create a futuristic and sustainable habitat design for long-term Martian use. Key features include 3D printing for efficient construction, AI and robotics for maintenance, and closed-loop systems for recycling water, air, and waste. Water storage within the walls provides radiation protection and insulation from temperature fluctuations, ensuring safety and comfort for inhabitants. These technologies collectively foster a resilient and self-sustaining environment.
6. Final Rendering
Once the concept was fully developed, we created the final 3D renderings, integrating realistic textures, lighting, and environmental factors such as Martian dust storms. These visualizations brought the design to life, showcasing how the habitat would function in the harsh Martian environment. By simulating real-world conditions, the renderings effectively demonstrated the adaptability and resilience of the habitat, providing a clear vision of what future Martian settlers could expect.
7. Feedback and Final Adjustments
Throughout the design process, we integrated valuable feedback from experts in space exploration, architecture, and sustainability. This collaboration allowed us to make minor adjustments that enhanced the habitat’s functionality and ensured it addressed all critical aspects of the mission. The final design reflects a careful balance between innovation and practicality, incorporating expert insights to optimize the habitat for long-term Martian habitation.

Community Impact and Vision for Mars

Our Mars habitat design focuses on a sustainable and human-centred community that will serve as a prototype foundation for future Martian Researchers. By creating a self-sustaining environment, advanced technology, resource efficiency, and human well-being.

Inspirations and Challenges

1. Major Inspiration
In our Mars habitat design, we were inspired by NASA’s Mars Advanced Design Program, which focuses on self-sufficiency, resource efficiency, and advanced technologies. We also drew inspiration from Hassell Studio's Mars Habitat (2019), which emphasized modular, adaptable spaces and sustainable architecture for human life on Mars.
2. Biggest Challenges and Solutions
Designing a habitat to withstand Mars’ harsh conditions low gravity, extreme temperatures, and high radiation—was a major challenge. To address this, we used Martian regolith for construction and inflatable modules for flexibility, ensuring resilience and sustainability.
Balancing functionality with crew well-being was another challenge. To prevent mental health issues, we included communal and private spaces, along with interactive zones like a gym, play area, and reading spaces. Simulated natural light cycles and flexible social spaces helped maintain a sense of connection.
Integrating advanced technologies, such as AI and robotics for habitat management, was also complex. We overcame this by collaborating with experts in space technology and materials science, ensuring a practical yet innovative design.
The circular inflatable module design was inspired by the need for efficient, scalable spaces that can be easily transported and deployed. Using Martian regolith for exterior walls allows the habitat to blend into the landscape, providing insulation and protection from radiation and extreme temperatures.

Reflections on Winning

Winning third place in the Beyond Earth Architectural Rendering Competition is an incredible honour. It feels rewarding to have our hard work finally find its worth and be recognized among such talented designers. A heartfelt thank you to Archiol for giving us this opportunity to showcase our work in the Beyond Earth rendering competition. It inspires us to keep pushing the boundaries of architectural design for future human habitats in space.

Special mention

Honorable mention

Maryam Asim

Mohammadreza Heydari

Ruolin (Angel) Yu

Maryam Asim

Pakistan

Maryam Asim, an architecture student from Pakistan, has a deep passion for exploring the intersection of design, science, and art. Her work is profoundly influenced by a lifelong fascination with astronomy and the mysteries of the universe, which often serve as inspiration for her creative process.

Receiving an Honorable Mention in the Beyond Earth Architectural Rendering Competition 2024 marked a significant milestone in her journey. This achievement reflects her dedication to pushing the boundaries of architectural storytelling and creating spaces that are both innovative and meaningful.

Through her designs, Maryam aims to craft experiences that evoke wonder, connect people with the cosmos, and seamlessly merge functionality with a sense of awe.

Mohammadreza Heydari

Iran

Founder and Principal Architect of MOHAT STUDIO, Mohammadreza Heydari is an accomplished architect with expertise in architectural design and construction. He has won over 10 prestigious architectural competitions and has a diverse portfolio that spans residential villas, apartments, schools, commercial, and office buildings.

Ruolin (Angel) Yu

U.S.

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