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Charred Timber Screens and Natural Ventilation Define a Modern Family Residence in the UAE

Authors:
Milward Erly Aquise Apaza, Jose Saul Paredes Soncco, Estefania Cristina Estofanero Flores, Melany guadalupe Gallegos begazo
Charred Timber Screens and Natural Ventilation Define a Modern Family Residence in the UAE

Project in-detail

Charred timber screens elegantly regulate natural light and airflow while creating distinct zones of privacy in a modern residence designed to support family gatherings in the UAE.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden screens provide both aesthetic appeal and functional privacy while maintaining airflow.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural stability and sustainability.
03
A modular layout allows flexible use of space for evolving family dynamics.
04
The design incorporates interstitial areas for natural ventilation and cooling.
05
Landscaping integrates with the architecture to support biodiversity and outdoor connectivity.

The project under review represents a modern residential architectural design situated in the United Arab Emirates, specifically tailored to accommodate the cultural and climatic demands of the region. This architectural endeavor focuses on creating a harmonious living environment that fosters family privacy while also promoting social interaction. The design is rooted in traditional Emirati values but employs contemporary strategies to meet present-day needs.

Design Characteristics and Unique Approaches

A notable feature of this project is its careful consideration of privacy and communal spaces. The architectural design utilizes a strategic perimeter approach, ensuring that the outer boundaries create a private atmosphere for residents. The double façade introduces a series of mashrabiya-style screens, which provide shade, reduce heat gain, and enhance privacy without completely isolating the interior from the scenic surroundings. This design element is critical in aligning with cultural preferences and environmental needs.

The use of a modular grid system is another innovative aspect of the project. This grid facilitates a functional layout that accommodates different family activities while ensuring efficient circulation throughout the dwelling. Spaces are designed to transition fluidly from public to private, allowing users to adapt the environment as per their requirements. The incorporation of interstitial spaces enhances natural ventilation within the residence, promoting energy efficiency and indoor air quality while reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems.

Sustainable materials play a significant role in this architectural project. The combination of concrete for structural integrity, masonry for aesthetic and practical functions, and strategically placed glass elements fosters a balanced interaction with the outdoors. Additionally, wooden accents provide warmth to interior spaces, creating a welcoming atmosphere essential for family life.

Technical Integration and Functionality

The architectural design integrates various systems to support the functionality of the residence. From thermal insulation to ensure energy efficiency to strategic landscaping that encourages biodiversity and natural cooling, each element contributes to the overall efficacy of the project. The interiors are not only aesthetically pleasing but are also designed to be functional and versatile. These aspects indicate a comprehensive understanding of user needs and climatic challenges.

To gain a more in-depth understanding of the architectural ideas and details that underpin this project, it is beneficial to explore the provided architectural plans, sections, and designs. These documents encapsulate the technical and conceptual principles that guide this residential design, providing valuable insights into the innovative approaches employed throughout the project.

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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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