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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create A Dynamic Retreat Emphasizing Nature Interaction

Authors:
Rinaldo D’alessandro, Gabriele Gentilomo
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create A Dynamic Retreat Emphasizing Nature Interaction

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design emphasizes seamless interaction with the surrounding landscape while creating a flexible living space that adapts to various functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance and aesthetic appeal while minimizing maintenance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength and sustainability for the lightweight design.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the living space.
04
Movable interior elements allow multifunctionality and adaptability to user needs.
05
The design integrates seamlessly with the landscape to preserve natural topography and ecosystem.

The Sliding Pods project represents a thoughtful exploration of modern architecture aimed at creating adaptable living spaces that harmonize with nature. The design focuses on sustainable practices, utilizing natural materials and innovative construction techniques to minimize ecological impact. By prioritizing an interactive experience, this architecture facilitates a connection between the inhabitants and their environment.

The central concept of the project revolves around flexibility and modularity, with a design that allows the structure to respond to various user needs and environmental conditions. Sliding roofs and movable interior elements enable the space to transform according to specific uses, whether for relaxation or social interaction. This dynamic setup blends functionality with simplicity, resulting in a minimalist space that promotes well-being and mindfulness.

The primary materials identified in this project include wood, which serves as the main structural element, and transparent panels that foster light and connectivity with the surroundings. The choice of these materials reflects an eco-conscious design philosophy, ensuring that the project aligns with sustainability goals. Moreover, the integration of insulation materials and potential energy-efficient technologies further emphasizes the project’s commitment to resource conservation.

Unique Design Approaches One of the notable aspects of the Sliding Pods project is the incorporation of moving roof elements, allowing for a greater degree of environmental interaction. This feature strategically facilitates the harnessing of solar energy and maximizes natural ventilation, enhancing thermal performance. Additionally, the design minimizes its physical footprint, resting lightly on the landscape to preserve the existing ecosystem while ensuring that the living space aesthetically complements its setting.

Another distinct feature involves the use of adaptable furniture and internal configurations. This allows inhabitants to customize their living environment easily, accommodating different activities and preferences. The approach encourages a lifestyle that is not only functional but also promotes a deep engagement with natural surroundings, contributing to the overall quality of life for occupants.

Integrated Living Spaces The interior design focuses on creating a welcoming atmosphere with an emphasis on natural light. The strategic arrangement of transparent elements and the configuration of internal spaces foster an openness that blurs the boundary between inside and outside. This integration enhances the user experience, facilitating a sense of tranquility while encouraging contact with nature.

Each element of the design has been carefully considered to maximize its utility and aesthetic value while maintaining clarity and simplicity. The combination of sustainable material choices, adaptive functionality, and thoughtful architectural planning positions the Sliding Pods project as a noteworthy example of contemporary architecture.

For a deeper understanding of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for more details. The insights gained will enhance appreciation for the unique architectural ideas that underscore this innovative 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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