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Charred Concrete and Natural Light Create An Engaging Cultural Hub

Authors:
Ahmad Hessami, Amir Shahidi, Keyvan Bashiri, Mehdi Rezaimanesh
Charred Concrete and Natural Light Create An Engaging Cultural Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred concrete and abundant natural light, the design fosters a vibrant community space dedicated to cultural activities and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes sustainable charred concrete for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates expansive cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural performance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to maximize natural light and create an inviting atmosphere.
04
Includes a "smart skin" system with integrated solar panels for energy efficiency.
05
Strategically designed to facilitate community interaction through versatile spatial arrangements.

The Concrete Poetry Hall is a contemporary architectural project located in Piazza Galeno. It serves as a multifunctional cultural space focused on fostering community interaction and engagement through artistic expression. The hall is designed to accommodate various activities, including exhibitions, performances, and educational programs, contributing to the vibrant cultural landscape of the area.

The architecture embodies a design philosophy that emphasizes organic forms and sustainable practices. Inspired by the life cycle of a flower, the structure reflects notions of growth and transformation. The use of concrete, glass, and steel highlights the project’s commitment to durability and aesthetic appeal, while also offering a dynamic and accessible environment for users.

Unique Design Approaches to Community Engagement

One of the distinctive features of the Concrete Poetry Hall is its innovative use of layered spaces. This approach allows for a variety of functions while promoting social interaction. The design incorporates vertical and horizontal circulation elements, such as ramps and stairs, enabling a seamless flow between different levels. This layout encourages the exploration of the space, reminiscent of natural forms in the surrounding environment.

The integration of a “smart skin” system enhances the building's energy efficiency by incorporating solar panels. This feature not only contributes to sustainability but also aligns with contemporary architectural trends focusing on environmentally responsible design. The glass elements facilitate natural light infiltration, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages visitors to engage with the space.

Functional Zoning and Flexibility

The interior layout of the Concrete Poetry Hall is divided into distinct zones that cater to various activities while maintaining an open and fluid character. Areas designated for exhibitions and performances are strategically positioned to maximize visibility and accessibility. These zones can be adapted for different types of events, ensuring flexibility in use.

Gathering spaces, designed for contemplation and social interaction, are interspersed throughout the hall, fostering community connectivity. This design strategy emphasizes the building's role as a cultural hub, encouraging diverse programming and participation from the local population.

The Concrete Poetry Hall serves as an architectural response to the need for spaces that promote cultural activities and community interaction. Its design integrates advanced materials and sustainable technologies while drawing inspiration from natural forms. For a deeper understanding of this architectural project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that provide further insights into its development and implementation.

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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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