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Charred Wood Shingles and Recycled Timber Create a Compact Retreat in Rural Texas

Author:
Charles Johannes Beckendorf
Charred Wood Shingles and Recycled Timber Create a Compact Retreat in Rural Texas

Project in-detail

Constructed from charred wood shingles and recycled timber, the cabin integrates naturally with the Texas landscape, providing a functional space for retreat and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural performance and sustainability.
03
Features a multifunctional layout that transforms spaces for varied daily activities.
04
Incorporates expansive windows to maximize natural light and outdoor views.
05
Designed to harmonize with the rugged Texas landscape for minimal environmental impact.

The architectural project BRICK is a small prefabricated cabin located in the rugged terrain of West Texas. This dwelling exemplifies a minimalist approach to residential design, focusing on functionality and efficient use of space. The project is intended as a retreat that offers a comfortable living environment while merging seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

The cabin spans 15 square meters, illustrating an effective design strategy that prioritizes adaptability and spatial efficiency. BRICK serves multiple functions, accommodating living, cooking, and sleeping areas within compact dimensions. The architecture emphasizes a connection to nature, incorporating expansive windows that provide unobstructed views of the environment.

Material selection is integral to the overall concept, with a focus on sustainability. Recycled timber forms the facade, while cement board provides structural durability. Large glass panels facilitate natural light, creating a welcoming atmosphere and promoting a sense of openness. These design decisions reflect a conscious effort to harmonize the built environment with its natural context.

Unique Materials and Structural Techniques The application of recycled materials such as timber not only demonstrates an environmentally responsible approach but also pays homage to the local geography. This choice of materials, combined with engineered wood and metal components, underscores the project’s commitment to longevity and resilience. The use of aluminum fixtures for doors and windows adds a modern touch while ensuring maintenance is straightforward.

The BRICK project also features an innovative interior layout, characterized by multifunctional spaces. The design includes movable elements that transform between living, dining, and sleeping areas, thus accommodating varied daily activities without compromising space. This adaptability enhances the user experience, making it suitable for a range of lifestyles.

Natural ventilation and light are central to the design. The strategic placement of windows creates internal voids that facilitate airflow and foster an inviting ambiance. This attention to environmental performance aligns with contemporary architectural standards and sets a precedent for future small-scale living solutions.

Exploring Architectural Plans and Details For further insights into the BRICK project, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and design details is recommended. These elements provide a comprehensive understanding of the spatial organization and material application within the design. The documentation reveals how the project navigates the interplay between indoor and outdoor spaces, emphasizing the importance of context in architectural practice.

In summary, BRICK represents a forward-thinking approach to residential architecture that melds functionality with sustainability. This project provides a robust framework for exploring innovative architectural ideas suitable for remote living environments. For a deeper understanding of the project, the architectural details and design concepts warrant further exploration.

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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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