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Charred Wood Shingles and Concrete Integrate Affordable Living Under Urban Bridges

Authors:
Anqi Wang, Hao Zhou, Ruijing Sun, Yue Liang
Charred Wood Shingles and Concrete Integrate Affordable Living Under Urban Bridges

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood shingles and durable concrete, this design contributes affordable housing solutions beneath urban bridges, transforming overlooked spaces into vibrant community living environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.
03
Features an innovative bent A-frame design to optimize space and light within the units.
04
Includes communal green roofs that promote biodiversity and urban ecosystem integration.
05
Designed specifically to transform neglected underbridge spaces into livable communities.

Underbridge Homes is an architectural project situated in New York City, aimed at addressing the challenges of urban housing in underutilized spaces. The initiative focuses on converting areas found beneath urban bridges into functional living environments, providing affordable housing solutions while revitalizing often neglected locations. This project merges social utility with architectural and aesthetic considerations, showcasing an innovative approach to urban design.

The project consists of modular housing units that are adaptable to various family sizes, facilitating a diverse range of living arrangements. Residents benefit from communal spaces that foster interaction and belonging, enhancing community engagement. The layout includes central communal areas surrounded by housing units, ensuring accessibility and a sense of openness within the design.

Material selection plays a crucial role in the Underbridge Homes project. Concrete serves as the primary structural material, allowing for durability and flexibility in the design. Brick is utilized for the facades, offering visual texture and warmth. Glass elements in windows and community spaces promote connectivity with the outdoor environment and provide natural light to the interior. Additionally, wood features prominently in outdoor decks and interior finishes, contributing to a calming atmosphere.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the distinctive aspects of Underbridge Homes is its innovative use of underbridge spaces for residential development. This approach recognizes the potential of previously overlooked areas, transforming them into livable communities. The project emphasizes natural ventilation through strategic window placements and orientation, thereby reducing dependence on artificial climate control methods.

Landscaping integrates with the architecture, featuring green roofs and terraces that help to mitigate the urban heat effect and encourage biodiversity. By including these elements, the design promotes not just individual living spaces but a cohesive ecosystem that enhances the quality of life for residents.

Architectural Plans and Details

In terms of architectural plans, the project showcases detailed layouts that effectively utilize vertical and horizontal space. The arrangement of modular units and the design of circulation paths illustrate a well-considered spatial organization. Architectural sections provide insight into how the buildings will interact with the surrounding infrastructure, emphasizing the relationship between the structures and their urban context.

For more in-depth information on this project, including architectural designs, architectural sections, and architectural ideas, it is recommended to explore the comprehensive project presentation that outlines all elements and concepts in detail.

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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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