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Charred Wood Accents and Climate-Responsive Design in Contemporary Family Living

Author:
Jonnattan Basilio Silva Ortega
Charred Wood Accents and Climate-Responsive Design in Contemporary Family Living

Project in-detail

Employing charred wood accents and structural insulated panels, the design merges contemporary aesthetics with environmental sensitivity to create a family dwelling that enhances both communal living and private spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs charred wood shingles that enhance durability while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Incorporates structural insulated panels for improved energy efficiency and reduced construction time.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that allows for effective rainwater management and natural ventilation.
04
Utilizes locally sourced materials to reinforce sustainability and minimize environmental impact.
05
Creates interconnected indoor and outdoor spaces that foster a sense of community and interaction.

ÜNÜMÜN House is a contemporary architectural project located in the United Arab Emirates. This residential design focuses on optimizing both family living and hospitality, reflecting cultural values inherent to the region. The structure is organized into distinct volumes that promote interaction in communal spaces while preserving the privacy of family areas. The integration of the landscape with the architectural elements further enhances the living environment.

The architectural design employs a modern aesthetic characterized by a clear massing strategy, allowing for functional spatial arrangements. The ground floor accommodates public spaces, including a reception area, living room, and dining area, all connected to landscaped outdoor areas through large glass doors. The first floor is designated for private family quarters, ensuring a balance between social and personal spaces.

The distinctive use of materials such as concrete, structural insulated panels (SIPs), ceramic tile, wood, drywall, and metal components is pivotal to the project’s performance and aesthetic. These materials not only contribute to the building's structural integrity but also enhance thermal efficiency and comfort, making it well-suited for the UAE's climate.

Spatial Organization and Flexibility

The ÜNÜMÜN House emphasizes flexible spatial organization that adapts to the needs of its occupants. The layout fosters interaction among family members while including areas that allow for privacy. Unique elements, such as the upper volume that protrudes and creates shaded outdoor spaces, visually separate communal functions from the private living areas. The design acknowledges the importance of gatherings and personal reflection, creating an inclusive environment that brings together hospitality and domestic life.

Another notable aspect of this project is its integration of traditional cultural motifs within a modern framework. The combination of smooth concrete finishes with warm wooden accents establishes a dialogue between contemporary architecture and local heritage. The landscaping is carefully curated with native plant species, promoting sustainability and further connecting the architecture to the surrounding environment.

Climate Responsive Design

The architectural design strategically addresses the climatic conditions of the UAE. The implementation of structural insulated panels aids in diminishing heat transfer, ensuring energy efficiency in cooling the living spaces. The positioning of large windows allows natural light to penetrate while minimizing glare and overheating. The incorporation of passive solar design principles within the project promotes sustainability and supports a lower dependency on mechanical systems for thermal comfort.

Overall, ÜNÜMÜN House represents a synthesis of modern design approaches with cultural respect, offering a practical solution to contemporary residential needs. Readers interested in a deeper understanding of this project are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs to gain further insights into the concepts and applications that define this 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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