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Brass Accents and Circular Forms Elevate Sustainable Living in Desert Housing

Authors:
KristÝna UhrovÁ, Simona Gašincová, Vojtěch Langr
Brass Accents and Circular Forms Elevate Sustainable Living in Desert Housing

Project in-detail

Circular forms integrated with brass accents and sustainable materials define a residential space that prioritizes environmental sensitivity while fostering community interaction in a harsh desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular forms enhance natural airflow throughout the living spaces.
02
Brass elements provide durability while contributing to the overall aesthetic.
03
Integrated green spaces promote biodiversity and outdoor engagement.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels reduce construction waste and enhance insulation.
05
The bent A-frame design allows for efficient water runoff in arid conditions.

The architectural design project "Orbis" serves as a residential intervention that merges traditional concepts with innovative design strategies suited for contemporary living. Located in Dubai, this project highlights an approach that responds not only to climatic demands but also to cultural and social contexts. The overall design focuses on creating a living environment that fosters community while maintaining individual privacy through structured spatial organization.

The central theme of "Orbis" is its adaptability to both social interactions and personal spaces. The design features a three-level structure with each floor serving distinct functions. The ground floor emphasizes community engagement with flexible spaces for gatherings and activities. The first floor offers areas for family interaction alongside personal retreats, while the second floor is designed for private living. This arrangement promotes fluid movement between spaces while maintaining a balance of openness and enclosure.

Sustainable material choices are integral to the project. The use of concrete for structural integrity, glass for natural light enhancement, and wood for warmth in the interior finishes reflects a commitment to sustainability and aesthetic coherence. Metal accents provide visual contrast and engage dynamically with lighting conditions, contributing to the project's overall ambiance. These materials have been selected not solely for their durabilities, such as resistance to the local climate but also for their ability to facilitate energy-efficient practices.

One of the project’s unique aspects is its integration of natural elements. Purposefully designed green spaces are woven throughout the layout, offering shade and promoting outdoor activities. This not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the architecture but also supports environmental sustainability by encouraging biodiversity and improving microclimates around the residence. Additionally, the design incorporates advanced technologies for energy efficiency, including solar panels and smart home features that reduce resource consumption and enhance living comfort.

In terms of architectural details, "Orbis" employs a combination of circular and organic forms that disrupt conventional rectilinear layouts. This design strategy encourages a more dynamic flow throughout the space while also allowing for varied spatial experiences. The interplay between different materials and forms adds richness to the residential setting, making it uniquely responsive to both its inhabitants and the surrounding environment.

The project is a noteworthy case study in contemporary residential architecture, demonstrating how thoughtful design can effectively address functional, cultural, and environmental considerations. Industry professionals interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design approaches that define "Orbis" are encouraged to delve deeper into the project's presentation for comprehensive insights into its innovative strategies and architectural ideas.

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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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