African Oryx Research Center

Stylized desert scene with wildlife, cacti, abstract shapes, and warm orange and yellow tones.
  • Modern angular building in a desert landscape under a cloudy sky at sunset.
    African Oryx Research Center
    Natalie Whitehead
  • Cross-section of a modern triangular-roofed building with people inside and a desert-like background.
    African Oryx Research Center
    Natalie Whitehead
  • Cross-section of a modern house showing interior rooms and an exploded view of structural elements.
    African Oryx Research Center
    Natalie Whitehead
  • Person walking between tall brick walls at sunset, with a desert landscape in the distance.
    African Oryx Research Center
    Natalie Whitehead
  • Two people walk toward a sunset over a savannah, with wooden railings and wildlife visible nearby.
    African Oryx Research Center
    Natalie Whitehead
  • Collage of desert wildlife, cacti, trees, and abstract patterns in warm orange tones.
    African Oryx Research Center
    Natalie Whitehead
  • Four-panel collage of desert landscapes with various activities and dramatic skies.
    African Oryx Research Center
    Natalie Whitehead

Team:

Natalie Whitehead

Instructors: 

Adam Wiese & Scott Lafferty
 

ARCH 310 / Fall 2025

This research center was inspired by the story of the African Oryx — removed from its native habitat, hunted for sport and ultimately left to survive in a harsh desert environment while populations in Africa declined. The building responds directly to its surroundings, oriented to capture prevailing winds, maximize daylight and minimize exposure to intense desert sun. Constructed with mud clay brick, timber and a massive thermal wall, the design helps maintain comfortable interior conditions in an extreme climate.

Three research labs connect to housing for researchers above, while the Oryx Outlook and public laboratory spaces invite visitors to engage with both the landscape and ongoing conservation efforts. From its siting to its material palette, every design decision reflects the desert ecosystem and the remarkable resilience of the Oryx.

BWBR Prize 2025