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Cactus-Inspired Residence Showcasing Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Natural Ventilation Strategies

Author:
Mona Ali
Cactus-Inspired Residence Showcasing Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Natural Ventilation Strategies

Project in-detail

Crafted from cross-laminated timber panels and inspired by the characteristics of desert flora, this residence leverages natural ventilation strategies to create a sustainable living environment suited for arid climates.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the resilience of cactus plants, the design incorporates natural air regulation features.
02
The residence uses a Windcatcher system for enhanced natural ventilation and cooling.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed for structural support while minimizing weight.
04
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and aesthetic character unique to the desert environment.
05
Multiple internal courtyards enhance airflow and connect the interior with the outdoor landscape.

The Cactus House is an architectural project designed to respond to the challenges of desert living through innovative design strategies. The project drew inspiration from the characteristics of the cactus, emphasizing resilience, adaptability, and an integration with the surrounding environment. The Cactus House is not only a residence but also an example of sustainable architecture that optimally utilizes natural resources while providing comfortable living spaces.

The main function of the Cactus House is to serve as a family home with a specific focus on climate responsiveness. The design incorporates various features that promote natural ventilation and reduce energy consumption. Each element serves a purpose aimed at creating efficient living conditions while maintaining a harmony with the harsh desert climate.

Unique Design Approaches

A key component of the Cactus House is its adoption of the Windcatcher. This architectural feature is instrumental in regulating indoor temperatures by harnessing wind to facilitate natural cooling. The Windcatcher allows for cross-ventilation, significantly improving air quality while minimizing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. This connects directly to the project's core philosophy of sustainability.

The spatial organization of the Cactus House utilizes an axial arrangement that connects indoor living areas to outdoor spaces. This layout enhances natural light penetration and encourages airflow throughout the building. Additionally, internal courtyards are strategically placed to act as lungs for the house, providing areas of calm amidst the bustling family environment. Notably, these courtyards also support the integration of vegetation, further enhancing the microclimate within the home.

Materiality stands as a foundational aspect of the Cactus House’s design. The materials employed include innovative substitutes that mirror natural elements. A waxy substance, resonant of the protective coating found on cactus plants, provides thermal insulation while reflecting sunlight. Alongside this, lightweight stone substitutes and engineered woods are utilized to minimize environmental impact and structural weight, ensuring the building is both durable and efficient.

Architectural sections and design diagrams further illustrate how each of these features interact cohesively, providing a comprehensive understanding of the project’s layout and functionality. The integration of sustainable materials with traditional building methods exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to architecture that acknowledges both aesthetic and practical demands.

The Cactus House exemplifies a modern approach to desert architecture. It shows how thoughtful design can create living environments that are not only functional but also ecologically sensitive. Those interested in understanding the intricate details of the architectural strategies employed in the Cactus House are encouraged to explore the architectural plans and sections for a deeper insight into this innovative design.

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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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