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Charred Wood Canopies and Flexible Spaces for Cultural Gathering in a Forest Setting

Author:
Chang yuan max Hsu
Charred Wood Canopies and Flexible Spaces for Cultural Gathering in a Forest Setting

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wood canopies and modular, flexible spaces, the design creates an immersive environment for cultural gatherings set within a lush forest backdrop.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates modular design elements, allowing for adaptable configurations during events.
03
Features a central circular performance area to promote community engagement.
04
Utilizes locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact and support regional resources.
05
Designed to harmonize with the surrounding forest ecosystem, enhancing natural interaction.

"The Courts of Māra" is a contemporary architectural project designed to support the Sansusi music festival in Latvia. Located within a dense forest, the design creates a modular, flexible gathering space for cultural events and community interactions. The functionality of the structure caters to a range of activities, prioritizing adaptability to accommodate various audience sizes and event formats. This integration within a natural setting highlights a contemporary approach to architecture that emphasizes sustainability and local cultural identity.

Unique Design Approaches in Modular Architecture

The project employs a modular design strategy that sets it apart from conventional event spaces. This method allows for the reconfiguration of the interior based on specific event requirements, whether small gatherings or larger performances. The central performance area is circular, encouraging communal engagement and interaction, which is key to the user experience of the festival. Surrounding this area are various modular units that provide services such as food and beverage options, fostering informal social engagement and enhancing the overall atmosphere.

Sustainability is fundamental to the project's design philosophy. The materials selected, including locally sourced wood, concrete blocks, steel brackets, canopy fabric, bamboo, and glass, all serve ecological considerations and durability. Lightweight fabric canopies provide shelter while contributing to the intimate ambiance of performances. By utilizing sustainable materials and construction practices, the project reinforces environmental stewardship and reduces its carbon footprint, making it a model for future architectural endeavors.

Integration with Natural Elements

The architectural design expertly integrates with the surrounding forest ecosystem, creating a seamless connection between the built environment and nature. The spatial organization allows visitors to experience the natural beauty of the landscape while engaged in cultural activities. Large glass sections facilitate transparency, maximizing natural light and enhancing the spatial quality of the interior. This connection to the environment is not merely aesthetic; it reinforces the project's commitment to sustainability and community well-being.

At its core, "The Courts of Māra" offers significant insights into modern architectural design, exploring the intersections of flexibility, culture, and ecology. The project stands as a testament to how spatial design can promote community interaction while respecting the environment. For those interested in a deeper understanding of the architecture, exploring the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas of this project will provide essential insights into its thoughtful execution.

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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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