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Charred Wood Screens and Modular Design Foster Community Living in Accessible Residential Units

Authors:
Sze nga siara Wong, Carole Yeong
Charred Wood Screens and Modular Design Foster Community Living in Accessible Residential Units

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wood screens and modular configurations, this residential design enhances communal living for seniors while seamlessly integrating into the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wood screens provide both aesthetic appeal and solar shading.
02
Modular design allows for flexible living configurations tailored to individual needs.
03
Integrated communal courtyards enhance social interactions among residents.
04
Gardened rooftops promote biodiversity and outdoor accessibility.
05
Ramped walkways ensure easy navigation for mobility-impaired individuals.

The architectural design project "Jenga for the Sol" is a residential solution oriented towards the elderly population in Portugal. The project aims to create a living environment that balances autonomy and community engagement, addressing the increasing demand for housing solutions tailored to seniors. Drawing on the metaphor of the Jenga game, the design employs a modular approach, with interconnected blocks offering distinct residential units and shared spaces.

The arrangement of the building responds to a sloped terrain, allowing for efficient use of the landscape while facilitating natural light and cross-ventilation. Strategic placement of communal courtyards provides opportunities for social interaction and accessible outdoor space, further supporting the health and well-being of residents.

Unique Design Considerations

One of the distinctive characteristics of "Jenga for the Sol" is its emphasis on adaptability. The design incorporates flexible living spaces that can accommodate varying degrees of independence among residents. Various configurations of single and double rooms ensure the project can adapt to individual needs and preferences. Additionally, the gardened rooftops and terraces serve not only aesthetic purposes but promote engagement with nature, encouraging outdoor activity and well-being.

The project's use of materials also sets it apart. Concrete is leveraged for structural elements, while reinforced glass enhances visibility and light penetration. Textured plaster and sustainable wood introduce warmth and comfort to the environment. Metal screens, designed with intricate patterns, provide an artistic flair and serve functional purposes by moderating light and maintaining privacy.

Architectural Integration and Community Focus

"Jenga for the Sol" integrates several innovative features to enhance community living. The design includes intersecting circulation routes that facilitate easy movement and connectivity between different areas. Ramped walkways ensure accessibility for residents with mobility devices, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity. Centralized community spaces, such as communal kitchens and social areas, are strategically placed to foster interaction and relationship-building among residents.

The architectural layout encourages social cohesion, allowing residents to engage through both planned and spontaneous interactions. Each space within the community is designed to create a welcoming atmosphere, prioritizing comfort and usability.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and overall design details of "Jenga for the Sol," exploring the project presentation can provide valuable insights into this thoughtful approach to elderly housing. Detailed architectural ideas presented within the project documentation illuminate the comprehensive planning and design strategies that inform this unique residential solution.

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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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