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Biophilic Design Featuring Glass and Steel Structures Embracing Volcanic Landscape for Sustainable Community Engagement

Authors:
Iskra Bilic, Ivana Brzovic
Biophilic Design Featuring Glass and Steel Structures Embracing Volcanic Landscape for Sustainable Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Emphasizing transparency through its extensive glass façade and biophilic elements, the design integrates steel and local materials within a volcanic landscape to create a multifunctional space for community education and engagement in sustainable food practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to enhance structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features extensive glass façades for natural light and transparency in food production.
03
Incorporates locally sourced charred wooden shingles for durability and climate responsiveness.
04
Includes dedicated spaces for community workshops and educational programs on sustainability.
05
Emphasizes biophilic design principles, integrating the building with its volcanic landscape.

This architectural project revolves around the integration of food production, education, and community interaction in a cohesive environment designed to foster awareness of the food cycle. Situated in a volcanic landscape, the facility serves as a center for learning and engagement, showcasing the ecological relationship between nature and gastronomy. The design emphasizes functionality, sustainability, and a seamless connection among its different components, aiming to serve both educational and recreational purposes.

Architecturally, the project incorporates a series of interconnected spaces, including a greenhouse, a restaurant, a multipurpose hall, and educational areas. Each component is strategically placed to enhance interactions, ensuring that visitors can easily transition between activities related to food production and consumption. The architectural design thoughtfully considers natural light, ventilation, and site context, creating an inviting atmosphere that promotes community involvement.

Unique Design Approaches

The approach to this project prioritizes transparency and connection to the surrounding environment. The greenhouse plays a crucial role in this initiative; its glass structure allows visitors to witness food cultivation firsthand. This design element not only provides introspection into plant growth but also serves an educational purpose, bridging the gap between farming practices and culinary experiences. The restaurant is positioned directly above the greenhouse, creating a visual connection between diners and the organic processes happening below.

The incorporation of natural materials enhances the building's relationship with its volcanic setting while also ensuring sustainability. Key materials include glass for visibility, steel for structural integrity, and concrete for durability. Wood is used in interior finishes to provide warmth, contributing to a welcoming environment. The landscaping incorporates gravel reflective of the volcanic terrain, promoting natural drainage and reinforcing regional authenticity.

Community Engagement and Educational Focus

This project emphasizes the importance of community through its design. Spaces are allocated for workshops, classrooms, and multipurpose activities, facilitating a broad range of programs focused on culinary arts and sustainable practices. By providing areas designed for collaboration, the architecture not only serves individual visitors but also fosters a sense of belonging and shared purpose among community members.

Future adaptability is a fundamental consideration, with provisions for expanding existing structures as community needs evolve. This flexibility ensures the project remains relevant and responsive to changing demands, embodying a forward-thinking architectural philosophy.

To explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs in greater detail, readers are encouraged to review the complete project presentation. This will provide further insights into the architectural ideas that define this innovative and functional project.

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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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