Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Bamboo A-Frame Featuring Rainwater Harvesting Systems for Sustainable Research Housing

Author:
Jo yee Ng
Bamboo A-Frame Featuring Rainwater Harvesting Systems for Sustainable Research Housing

Project in-detail

Constructed primarily from bamboo, this A-frame shelter integrates rainwater harvesting and composting toilets to create a sustainable living space tailored for researchers in the Malaysian rainforest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from fast-growing bamboo, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
02
Features an A-frame design for efficient water drainage and structural stability in tropical conditions.
03
Incorporates an integrated rainwater harvesting system to promote sustainable water use.
04
Utilizes composting toilets to minimize water consumption and enhance eco-friendliness.
05
Adjustable foundation accommodates diverse terrain in the rainforest ecosystem.

The OOBMAB project is an architectural design focused on creating temporary housing for researchers conducting field studies in the Malaysian rainforest. Its primary goal is to provide a functional and adaptable structure that meets the specific needs of occupants while minimizing environmental impact. The design utilizes sustainable materials and an innovative approach to construction, contributing to both the building's utility and its ecological footprint.

Sustainable Material Use The OOBMAB project stands out due to its extensive use of bamboo, a material recognized for its strength, light weight, and sustainability. Bamboo's rapid growth and renewability make it an ideal choice for temporary structures. The design incorporates various forms of bamboo, including laminated bamboo planks for flooring, woven bamboo mats for wall surfaces, and structural bamboo beams that form the main framework. These materials not only reduce the project's carbon footprint but also enable a quick assembly and disassembly process, facilitating mobility for researchers.

Another noteworthy feature of OOBMAB is the integration of other eco-friendly elements such as rubber tree oil for waterproofing, mesh screening for insect protection, and a rainwater harvesting system. These features enhance the project's sustainability and contribute to a low-impact living environment.

Functional Design Elements The OOBMAB project employs a simple A-frame design that allows for efficient water runoff and provides structural stability against tropical weather conditions. The open interior layout promotes natural ventilation and maximizes the use of natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere for occupants. The design also includes large windows and adjustable openings that facilitate airflow while maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.

The project incorporates a flexible foundation capable of adjusting to varying terrain, ensuring stability in the diverse topography of the rainforest. The construction methods employed, such as string techniques and dowel systems, simplify assembly and increase the building's adaptability for different locations.

Innovative Integration of Systems Additionally, OOBMAB integrates various sustainable technologies that enhance its functional capabilities. Solar panels are included to provide renewable energy, reducing dependency on external power sources. The project also features composting toilets, which minimize water usage and promote waste recycling, aligning with the overall emphasis on sustainability.

The combination of these systems not only supports the day-to-day operational needs of researchers but also exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to residential architecture in ecologically sensitive regions.

For additional insights into the OOBMAB project, including architectural plans and sections, readers are encouraged to explore the comprehensive presentation of this design. By examining these details, one can appreciate the full scope of the architectural ideas and innovations that define this unique project.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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.

`

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

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy