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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Integration in a Revitalized Military Structure

Authors:
Dian Luo, Guisong Zhang, Xiang Liu
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Integration in a Revitalized Military Structure

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and an expansive concrete roof, a repurposed military bunker transforms into a sustainable data center, merging historical context with modern technology in a seamless interaction with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposed an original military bunker to preserve historical significance.
02
Utilized charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Integrated cross-laminated timber panels to improve energy efficiency.
04
Features a bent A-frame design to support large open spaces while minimizing construction impact.
05
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system to promote sustainability.

The Data Landscape project transforms an abandoned military bunker into a modern data center, optimizing the interplay between historical preservation and contemporary architectural design. Situated in Wourt, a region characterized by its mountainous terrain and rich history, the project aims to reinvigorate this historically significant site while adapting it for modern technological uses.

The project consists of three primary components: a data center, a community center, and residential and office spaces. These elements are designed to coexist harmoniously, integrating seamlessly with the topography and maintaining visual connections to the surrounding landscape. The horizontal roofline of the data center echoes the original bunker’s form, providing a visual link to the site’s past while incorporating modern materials and energy-efficient systems.

The design prioritizes sustainability, utilizing durable materials such as concrete, glass, stone, and steel. These materials contribute to the project's resilience and aesthetic quality, facilitating the natural lighting and ventilation essential for operational efficiency within the data center. The concrete pathways and stone landscaping enhance the site's interaction with its natural surroundings, fostering a cohesive environment where technology and nature coalesce.

Preservation and Community Engagement

One of the primary distinctions of the Data Landscape project is its emphasis on historical preservation alongside community engagement. Rather than demolishing the existing structure, the project integrates the bunker into its overall design, effectively honoring the site's military history. The community center serves as a focal point for public interaction and outreach, not commonly found in typical data center projects. This careful consideration of the site's narrative fosters a sense of identity and belonging within the surrounding community.

The layout of the residential and office units is also innovative, utilizing a semi-underground approach that enhances privacy and security while minimizing visual disturbance. By embedding these spaces within the contour of the landscape, the design not only respects the geography of the site but also promotes energy efficiency, as the earth provides natural insulation.

Architectural Interaction and Experience

The overall experience of the Data Landscape project is further enhanced by the interconnected pathways that guide visitors between the various elements. These routes encourage exploration and interaction, creating a dynamic relationship among the users and the built environment. The open courtyard between the data center and community center operates as a gathering space, reinforcing the project's commitment to community connectivity.

The design's unique approach to integrating history, technology, and community access sets it apart from traditional developments in the field. The focus on sustainable materials, environmental responsiveness, and public engagement transforms this project into a valuable asset for both the community and the tech industry.

For those interested in further exploring the architectural plans and sections that illustrate these ideas, additional project details can be found in the presentation material. Reviewing these elements will provide deeper insights into the innovative design strategies and functional aspects that define the Data Landscape project.

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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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