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Charred Wood Cladding Enhances Compact Living Solutions in Urban Environments

Authors:
Isaac Flores Trávez, Carla Flores Trávez
Charred Wood Cladding Enhances Compact Living Solutions in Urban Environments

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood cladding and efficient modular design, this compact urban dwelling offers a sustainable solution for modern living while fostering community interaction among residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wood cladding for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural performance.
03
Features a flexible modular design that supports various living configurations.
04
Integrates solar energy systems for sustainable energy use.
05
Encourages community interaction through shared outdoor spaces.

The "25m² House" is an architectural project designed to address the increasing demand for affordable housing in urban environments, particularly in Quito, Ecuador. The project emphasizes the effective use of limited space while maximizing functionality and fostering community interaction. The compact design occupies a footprint of 25 square meters and is divided into various essential living areas, including sleeping, living, and workspace zones, aimed at enhancing the quality of life for occupants within an urban setting.

Efficient Layout and Functionality

The architectural design prioritizes efficient utilization of space by allocating specific areas for distinct functions. The layout consists of a sleeping area, living room, workspace, kitchen, and bathroom, all arranged to facilitate a natural flow throughout the home. This thoughtful spatial organization reduces clutter and allows for versatile usage of each area. The incorporation of multi-functional furniture further optimizes space, adapting to the needs of residents as required. Innovative solutions such as hidden bed mechanisms provide flexibility, transforming living spaces seamlessly between day and night functions.

Sustainability and Material Innovation

A key aspect of the 25m² House is its material selection, which reflects the project's commitment to sustainability and practicality. The design features metal roof cladding for durability, concrete flooring for robustness, and Kingspan Troldtekt acoustic ceiling tiles for improved sound insulation. The use of charred wood cladding not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also ensures resistance to decay and pests. Additionally, the structure incorporates solar energy provisions, promoting energy efficiency and reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. These materials collectively contribute to reduced maintenance requirements and an overall lower environmental impact.

Community Orientation and Flexible Design

What sets the 25m² House apart from other housing projects is its focus on community and adaptability. Designed to encourage interaction among residents, the layout allows for shared spaces that foster social connections. The housing units can be arranged in clusters, promoting a collaborative living environment while respecting individual privacy. This unique approach aligns with the contemporary shift towards communal living and shared resources, enabling residents to benefit from a supportive neighborhood network.

The combination of efficient spatial planning, sustainable materials, and community-oriented design establishes the 25m² House as a notable example of modern architecture in urban residential settings. For deeper insights into the project, including detailed architectural plans and sections, the exploration of architectural designs and ideas related to this project is encouraged.

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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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