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3D Printed Panels and Structural Insulated Elements Enhancing Community Privacy in a Sustainable Residential Setting

Author:
Joshua David Nichols
3D Printed Panels and Structural Insulated Elements Enhancing Community Privacy in a Sustainable Residential Setting

Project in-detail

Employing 3D printed panels and structural insulated systems, the design fosters community interaction while ensuring privacy in a sustainable residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
3D printed panels integrate traditional design elements for enhanced functionality.
02
Structural insulated panels improve thermal performance and reduce energy use.
03
Operable Mashrabiya-inspired screens provide privacy while allowing natural ventilation.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems support sustainable water management.
05
Flexible interior spaces adapt to changing family dynamics and needs.

### Overview

The Imprint project is situated in a dynamic residential area and aims to integrate traditional architectural influences with contemporary design while leveraging advancements in construction technology, such as 3D printing and prefabrication. The design focuses on fundamental principles including privacy, sustainability, community interaction, and flexibility, ensuring a holistic residential experience that meets contemporary living needs.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality

The layout employs a cohesive spatial strategy that facilitates fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor areas. The ground floor connects the living space directly to a backyard patio, enhancing interaction with nature. On the first floor, private sleeping quarters feature balconies that provide serene retreats and views of the surrounding landscape, while high ceilings enhance the sense of volume within the spaces. Versatility is a key design consideration, as illustrated by the driver's suite with an independent entrance, allowing for potential guest accommodation or rental opportunities. Common areas are designed to promote social engagement while also creating personal niches for occupants seeking privacy.

### Sustainability and Material Selection

Sustainability is embedded in the design through various features and careful material selection. Photovoltaic panels are installed to maximize energy generation based on solar path analyses and are supported by home battery systems designed to sustain essential power for extended periods. Water management is addressed with dual water tanks, facilitating both municipal water supply and rainwater harvesting. Innovative materials, such as 3D printed architectural elements and Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs), enhance energy efficiency while minimizing construction waste. The façade features operable 3D printed screens that draw inspiration from traditional Mashrabiya designs, providing effective sunlight control and airflow management, while integrating green landscaping to bolster environmental sustainability.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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