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Canopy Structure Enhances Community Space With Local Stone And Sustainable Wood

Author:
Romain Jacques K Russe
Canopy Structure Enhances Community Space With Local Stone And Sustainable Wood

Project in-detail

A canopy structure made from sustainable wood forms a unique shading feature over a central swimming pool, while local stone integrates the facility into its historic context, creating a vibrant communal space in the heart of Fez.
5 key facts about this project
01
A canopy structure mimicking natural forms provides shaded areas for users while enhancing the aesthetic appeal.
02
Local stone is utilized for walls, fostering a strong connection with the historic context of Fez.
03
The design incorporates passive cooling techniques to improve comfort in the region's climate.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems are integrated into the architecture, promoting sustainability.
05
An organic layout encourages community interaction with open, inviting spaces around the central pool.

The project "The Suspended Baths" is located in Fez, Morocco, at the entrance of the historic Medina. This architectural initiative aims to repurpose a vacant lot into a multifunctional communal space that combines leisure, swimming, and social interaction. Its design reflects an effort to integrate modern functionality with traditional Moroccan architectural elements.

The main feature of the project is a central swimming pool, which serves as a focal point around which various communal areas are organized. The layout is characterized by a series of irregularly shaped blocks that promote an organic flow throughout the space. This design approach enhances connectivity between different areas, facilitating movement and interaction among users.

The architectural expression captures the essence of traditional Moroccan design while introducing contemporary features. The canopy structure that resembles trees creates shaded areas, allowing for natural ventilation and rainwater harvesting. This design decision underscores a commitment to sustainable architecture, minimizing the environmental impact of the facility while promoting user comfort.

The use of materials in "The Suspended Baths" is notable. Local stone provides a robust foundation and supports continuity with the historical context of the Medina. Wood is employed extensively for its warmth and aesthetic appeal, while large glass panels enhance visibility and light levels within the space. Reinforced concrete is utilized for structural integrity, especially around the pool area, allowing for safe and durable public use.

Unique design attributes of the project include its integration with the surrounding urban fabric and its emphasis on social connectivity. By creating open and inviting spaces, the design fosters interaction among residents and visitors. The project's positioning at the entrance of the Medina enhances its role as a transitional space between the historic core and modern amenities.

Another distinguishing feature is the brise-soleil design, which provides shade and contributes to passive cooling. This approach aligns with regional climate considerations, promoting comfortable use throughout various seasons. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces ensures that users can engage with both the natural environment and the architectural elements seamlessly.

The architecture of "The Suspended Baths" presents a coherent blend of functionality, sustainability, and cultural reverence. Its innovative approach to communal spaces redefines typical recreational facilities by placing emphasis on community interaction and environmental responsibility.

For further exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and detailed design features, readers are encouraged to delve into the project presentation. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of the architectural ideas that shape "The Suspended Baths" and its role within the urban landscape of Fez.

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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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