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Charred Wood Shingles Create Harmony with Nature in a Versatile Retreat

Authors:
José Gabriel López Cabrera, David Alejandro Rodriguez Sarzosa, Daniel Esteban Romero Freire, Dennis Ricardo Sola Duque
Charred Wood Shingles Create Harmony with Nature in a Versatile Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wood shingles and expansive glass elements, the design fosters a seamless connection with the landscape while serving as a versatile retreat for reflection and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural stability while minimizing environmental impact.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for effective rainwater management and natural ventilation.
04
Designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, promoting ecological harmony.
05
Interior spaces are adaptable for various uses, supporting community gatherings and individual reflection.

The project, "A Stonebarn," is an architectural design that effectively integrates built form with its natural surroundings. Located in a serene landscape, this structure is envisioned as a versatile space that fosters contemplation and interaction with the environment. The design employs a combination of solid and transparent materials, allowing for both shelter and connectivity with nature.

The Stonebarn presents a spatial arrangement that invites occupants to engage with different aspects of the site. Utilizing stone, wood, concrete, glass, and steel, the materials have been chosen to ensure durability while maintaining a relationship with the landscape. Stone provides a sense of permanence, while wood adds warmth. Concrete pathways enhance accessibility throughout the area, and glass elements create a dialogue between interior and exterior spaces.

Unique Design Approaches

One distinguishing feature of the Stonebarn is its emphasis on adaptable spaces. This design departs from conventional rigid layouts by allowing for multifunctional use. Individual rooms can serve diverse purposes, such as meditation areas or gathering spaces, without compromising the overall integrity of the design. This flexibility acknowledges changing needs over time.

The project also considers the theme of decay and its aesthetic implications. The architecture deliberately engages with natural processes, highlighting the beauty of transience in both structure and environment. By inviting users to witness the life cycle of the building, the design cultivates a deeper connection to the site.

Spatial Relationships and Engagement

The arrangement of the building creates a series of visual and physical connections with the surrounding landscape. Pathways and openings frame views and draw occupants into nature, emphasizing engagement with the environment. The careful placement of windows and outdoor areas encourages interaction with the changing light and sound of the surroundings throughout the day.

For a thorough understanding of "A Stonebarn," it is essential to explore architectural plans, sections, and the overall design concept. Reviewing these elements reveals the depth of thought behind the project and showcases how architectural ideas are manifested in a cohesive manner. Engaging with the comprehensive project presentation will provide greater insights into the unique qualities and architectural innovations within this design.

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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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