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Bamboo Living Units Integrating Courtyards and Natural Light Within a Compact Urban Envelope

Author:
Lingwei Xiong
Bamboo Living Units Integrating Courtyards and Natural Light Within a Compact Urban Envelope

Project in-detail

Utilizing bamboo as a primary structural element, this design integrates natural light and communal courtyards to create two residential units within a compact urban context, enhancing both functionality and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes bamboo as a primary structural material to enhance sustainability and local relevance.
02
Designed as two separate units connected by a central corridor for improved community interaction.
03
Incorporates extensive green roofs and courtyards for natural ventilation and outdoor living space.
04
Features a minimalist facade with white plaster to create contrast with traditional surroundings.
05
Maximizes light and airflow through strategically placed openings and flexible interior layouts.

The Bamboo House Evolution is an architectural project located in Guangzhou, China, designed to accommodate two separate familial units within a compact urban site measuring 3 meters in width and 26 meters in length. This residential structure addresses the complexities of contemporary urban living while paying homage to the historical context of traditional bamboo houses in the area. The project emphasizes sustainability, functionality, and community, making it a relevant solution for modern housing challenges.

The design features a shared central corridor that connects the two residential units, promoting interaction while maintaining individual privacy. The arrangement of spaces is optimized for efficiency, allowing for effective use of the narrow plot. Each unit is equipped with living areas that adapt to various family dynamics, private sleeping quarters, and the integration of green spaces in the form of courtyards and rooftop gardens, which contribute to the overall quality of life for the residents.

Unique Design Approaches A defining characteristic of the Bamboo House Evolution is its materiality. The predominant use of bamboo not only reflects sustainability but also resonates with the local architectural heritage. The project employs bamboo in structural elements, accents, and finishes, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits. Complementary materials, such as concrete for foundational strength, glass for ample natural light, and wood for interior comfort, further enhance the design.

The minimalist facade, characterized by white plastered surfaces, contrasts with the textures of the surrounding historical buildings. This choice is intentional, marking a modern identity while respecting the existing urban fabric. Additionally, the strategic placement of windows and openings facilitates cross-ventilation, reducing the demand for mechanical cooling solutions and enhancing thermal comfort.

Integration of Natural Elements The architectural design prioritizes the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, promoting a lifestyle that embraces nature. Rooftop gardens and courtyard areas encourage social interaction and recreational activities among the residents. Moreover, the architecture's fluid design facilitates natural light penetration throughout the units, reducing reliance on artificial lighting during the day.

The careful organization of spaces allows for seamless transitions between private and communal areas. This approach fosters a sense of community while ensuring personal space, addressing the needs of multi-generational living. The project's emphasis on practical living solutions, combined with its respect for traditional building methods and materials, positions it as a relevant model for future urban residential projects.

Explore the project presentation for more details and to review essential architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that further illuminate the design philosophy and operational functions of the Bamboo House Evolution.

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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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