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Branching Form with Perforated Metal Screens and Natural Stone for Family Living

Author:
Hazem Al Zaro
Branching Form with Perforated Metal Screens and Natural Stone for Family Living

Project in-detail

A branching structure characterized by perforated metal screens and a blend of concrete and natural stone creates a versatile family dwelling that emphasizes both privacy and communal interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Branching structure symbolizes familial connections, enhancing social interaction and privacy.
02
Perforated metal screens provide natural ventilation and dynamic light patterns inside.
03
Utilizes a mix of concrete and natural stone, integrating with the surrounding environment.
04
Double-height living spaces promote openness while maintaining functional separation.
05
Modular room designs allow for flexible usage, accommodating changing family needs.

The architectural project "OAR" is a contemporary residential design situated within an Emirati context, effectively bridging modern aesthetics with traditional cultural elements. The project embodies a design philosophy that prioritizes family and social cohesion, encapsulated in its unique branching form. This branching structure not only facilitates a functional home but also symbolizes the interconnectedness of familial ties.

The primary function of "OAR" is to serve as a versatile living space that accommodates both collective and individual activities. The layout is thoughtfully organized into specific areas for private living, communal gatherings, and integrated outdoor spaces, ensuring a balance between privacy and social interaction. This dual function enhances the dwelling's usability for diverse family dynamics and activities.

Unique Design Approaches

The design of "OAR" stands out through its innovative form generation. The architecture draws influence from the concept of a family tree, resulting in a distinctive branching structure that breaks away from conventional cubic forms commonly found in residential buildings. This approach fosters a fluid spatial arrangement that encourages interaction among family members while still providing private sanctuaries as needed.

Materiality plays a pivotal role in the project's character. The use of concrete ensures structural robustness, while glass elements promote transparency and connection with the surroundings. Perforated metal screens are strategically integrated, offering both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits, such as ventilation and light modulation. Additionally, natural stone and wood elements introduce a tactile quality to the design, enhancing user comfort and engagement.

Environmental sustainability is another fundamental aspect of "OAR." The design incorporates energy-efficient systems, including photovoltaic panels and natural ventilation techniques, which reduce the reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems. Water management features, such as gray water recycling, further demonstrate the project’s commitment to sustainable practices.

Spatial Efficiency and Flexibility

The organization of spaces within "OAR" is a testament to architectural efficiency. The integration of double-height living areas allows for increased natural light penetration and visual connectivity throughout the home. Vertical circulation is optimized through well-placed staircases and lifts, facilitating seamless movement between levels.

Additionally, the modular design of rooms enables flexibility in usage. Spaces can be easily adapted for various functions, accommodating changing family needs and preferences over time. This adaptability is a crucial design consideration, reflecting the evolving nature of contemporary living arrangements.

The project presentation of "OAR" offers further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideation. Exploration of these elements will provide a comprehensive understanding of how this residential project successfully merges context-responsive architecture with innovative design solutions.

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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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