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Charred Wood Facades and Recycled Materials in a Community-Centric Residential Retreat

Authors:
Alessandra Zaharia, Anamaria Mustata
Charred Wood Facades and Recycled Materials in a Community-Centric Residential Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood facades and recycled materials, the design emphasizes sustainability while creating a community-focused residential retreat that harmonizes with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wood facades for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for efficient structural performance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural lighting and ventilation.
04
Arranged around a central courtyard to foster community interaction.
05
Integrates recycled materials to minimize environmental impact.

This architectural project illustrates a modern approach to residential design, integrating contemporary elements with traditional forms. Situated in a region characterized by natural landscapes, the project includes a Main House and several guest houses arranged around a centrally located courtyard. This layout not only maximizes the interaction among inhabitants but also enhances the connection between the buildings and their environment.

The design serves multiple functions, including private living quarters, communal spaces for gatherings, and areas that encourage interaction with nature. The architectural layout effectively balances public and private experiences, making it suitable for family gatherings or individual retreats.

Design Characteristics and Materiality

The project's façade is constructed using light-colored brick, which provides a warm and inviting appearance. This choice of material also contributes to thermal performance. The combination of angular roofs and flat roof extensions maximizes the natural light entering the interior spaces while creating a dynamic profile against the skyline. The entrance is marked by large glass doors that establish a clear transition between indoor and outdoor environments, inviting exploration.

Distinctively, the guest houses feature versatile layouts that accommodate different living arrangements, enhancing the functionality of the overall design. Each unit includes large windows, maximizing daylight and views of the surrounding greenery. The arrangement promotes privacy while fostering a sense of community, redefining conventional expectations of residential living.

Sustainability and Integration with Nature

One of the defining aspects of this project is its commitment to sustainability. The design repurposes existing structures while incorporating environmentally friendly practices. Landscaping is thoughtfully integrated into the layout, with the central courtyard designed as a communal focal point, reinforcing the bond between the built environment and its natural setting.

Pathways and porticos connect the various structures, providing shaded outdoor spaces that enhance usability throughout the year. This design approach acknowledges the importance of outdoor living, blurring the lines between interior spaces and the surrounding landscape.

To gain further insights into this architectural project, consider exploring architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that detail the thoughtful design ideas behind this systematic and cohesive residence. The meticulous balance between aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability makes this project a noteworthy example within its context.

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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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