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Charred Wooden Shingles and Biophilic Design in a Community-Centric Cultural Hub

Authors:
Yusuke KINOSHITA, Daisuke SEKINE
Charred Wooden Shingles and Biophilic Design in a Community-Centric Cultural Hub

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a biophilic design approach, this cultural hub strategically integrates community spaces with natural elements, serving as a multifunctional center for artistic and social engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs a design by subtraction approach to minimize the built footprint and enhance natural landscaping.
02
Integrates biophilic elements that foster a connection between indoor and outdoor environments.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
05
Creates a central community garden that serves as a multifunctional gathering space.

The Nature Culture Hub in Cesis, Latvia, is an architectural project that emphasizes the integral relationship between urban development and natural environments. Positioned strategically between the historic Old Town and Ruckas Park, this project represents a cultural confluence designed to engage community interaction while promoting ecological awareness. The hub serves dual functions: it acts as a space for artistic expressions and cultural activities, and as a connector between urban and natural landscapes.

The design features a variety of spaces including exhibition areas, performance venues, and multifunctional rooms. Each area is deliberately crafted to foster creativity and collaboration among different community sectors. The architectural layout prioritizes transparency and accessibility, with open pathways and communal spaces that invite public engagement and leisure.

Unique Design Considerations

A key feature of the Nature Culture Hub is its biophilic design approach. This involves the incorporation of natural elements into the architectural plan, such as green roofs and interior gardens, which enhance the connection between occupants and the surrounding environment. The design utilizes natural wood and glass, materials chosen for their sustainability and aesthetic qualities. The intent is to create a warm, inviting atmosphere while minimizing the environmental impact.

The project employs a "design by subtraction" philosophy, reducing the built volume to emphasize landscaping and gardens. This unique approach allows the natural topography to guide the architectural forms, resulting in a structure that enhances its surroundings rather than overpowering them.

Spatial Configuration and Functional Provisions

The layout includes distinct zones: creative functions that house galleries and theaters, natural functions that feature gardens and outdoor gathering spaces, and mixed-use areas meant for commercial and residential purposes. This intentional zoning supports an atmosphere of innovation and community cohesion, facilitating a variety of uses ranging from art exhibitions to social gatherings.

The integration of walkable pathways, green corridors, and public spaces fosters an environment conducive to movement and interaction. Each space is designed to be adaptable, reflecting a commitment to versatility in usage to accommodate diverse community needs.

The Nature Culture Hub stands out through its comprehensive approach to blending architecture with the ecosystem. The project serves as a model for future developments that aim to balance urbanization with environmental sustainability. For readers wishing to explore more about this architectural endeavor, detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs provide valuable insights into the design rationale and execution. Reviewing these elements will deepen the understanding of the innovative approaches employed in the Nature Culture Hub.

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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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