Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Harmonious Community Space

Authors:
Marco Imperatrice, Vincenzo Castaldo, Gianluca Micera, Vittorio Riccio
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Harmonious Community Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design creates a functional community space that emphasizes sustainability while seamlessly integrating with its environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength while promoting a sustainable building approach.
02
Charred wooden shingles offer enhanced durability and a distinctive aesthetic.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the space.
04
Integrated green roofs reduce stormwater runoff and enhance biodiversity.
05
Flexible interior layouts accommodate diverse community activities and gatherings.

The project presents a comprehensive architectural design that seamlessly incorporates functionality with a unique aesthetic, reflecting both contemporary trends and the cultural context of its location. Designed to serve multiple purposes, the building integrates communal and private spaces, showcasing a harmonious relationship between the built environment and its surroundings.

Key aspects of the design include an innovative spatial layout that prioritizes user experience while ensuring efficient circulation throughout the structure. The open-plan design fosters collaboration and interaction among occupants, while defined spaces maintain privacy where necessary. High ceilings and ample natural light contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the overall functionality of the project.

Creative use of materials is a hallmark of this project, where the selection ranges from reinforced concrete to timber accents. The contrast in textures and colors not only increases visual appeal but also addresses sustainability goals. Eco-friendly materials have been implemented thoughtfully to minimize the environmental impact, while energy-efficient systems enhance operational performance.

Unique Design Innovations

One of the defining characteristics of this project is its integration of green architecture principles. A landscaped roof provides insulation and mitigates stormwater runoff, contributing positively to the local ecosystem. The building's orientation takes advantage of natural light, reducing reliance on artificial illumination and optimizing energy usage.

The incorporation of flexible spaces allows for various uses, catering to both communal gatherings and individual activities. Movable walls facilitate adaptability, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to space management. This flexibility invites diverse interactions and ensures that the design remains relevant to future needs.

Architectural Details and Functionality

Architectural details further elevate the design, emphasizing both practicality and aesthetic value. The facade employs a mixture of large glass panels and solid materials, creating a dialogue between transparency and solidity. This not only enhances visibility but encourages engagement with the environment, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Landscaping plays a vital role in this project, with carefully chosen flora complementing the building's design. Outdoor areas are designed to facilitate relaxation and social interaction, enhancing the overall user experience.

By exploring additional resources such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs related to this project, stakeholders can gain a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas that underpin this innovative design. For those interested in contemporary architecture that prioritizes sustainability and user engagement, this project represents a significant contribution to the discourse in the field.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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.

`

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

Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy