Kibbutz Neot Semadar

Neot Semadar is a kibbutz

established in the late 1980s on the remains of an abandoned community in the Negev desert of southern

Israel

. On the road from Mitzpe Ramon to Eilat, the kibbutz appears like a mirage—an oasis filled with palm trees, in the middle of which rises an unusual, 120-foot-tall pink tower.

This impressive, almost whimsical-looking tower in the middle of the kibbutz is an art center hosting many creative workshops as well as a boutique. It was built by members of the Neot Semadar community over the course of 15 years. The tower on top isn’t only decorative; it’s actually a passive cooling tower inspired by ancient Middle Eastern building techniques. The tower cools down the air entering at the top using a small amount of pulverized water, and acts as an eco-friendly AC for the whole building. The same system has been replicated at a smaller scale on other buildings inside the kibbutz. It also offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the garden surrounded by a sandy landscape.

Neot Semadar’s economy is based on organic and sustainable agriculture, using recycled water. It includes the production of goat cheese, olive oil, fruits, vegetables, an herb garden, and a winery selling more than 20,000 bottles a year. This food production is  used to feed the kibbutz’ inhabitants: some 90 adults, 70 children, and 50 volunteers. It also supplies Pundak Neot Semadar, a roadside vegetarian restaurant.