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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Sustainable Retreat in Portugal

Author:
Haodong Pan
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Sustainable Retreat in Portugal

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and locally sourced cross-laminated timber converge in a sustainable guest house designed to harmonize with its olive grove setting while providing a tranquil retreat for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced weather resistance and natural insulation.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to rapid construction and reduced carbon footprint.
03
A bent A-frame design encourages natural ventilation and maximizes interior space.
04
Meditative spaces integrate seamlessly with the surrounding olive grove landscape.
05
Community-focused areas promote social interaction while maintaining guest privacy.

The Portugal Olive Guest House is an architectural project that integrates sustainable design principles with local context, creating an inviting retreat in the Portuguese landscape. The architecture represents a commitment to environmental stewardship, utilizing local materials and technologies to reduce the carbon footprint. The primary function of the guest house is to serve as accommodation for visitors while fostering a sense of community through shared spaces.

The architectural design incorporates a semi-circular form that reflects the growth patterns of an olive tree, symbolizing harmony with nature. Guest rooms are strategically designed to provide privacy while communal areas promote social interaction. The layout emphasizes natural light and ventilation, ensuring a comfortable environment for occupants.

Unique Design Approaches

The guest house distinguishes itself through its focus on organic shapes and sustainable materials. The use of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) and Glulam ensures structural efficiency, while cork cladding offers thermal insulation. This combination reduces reliance on energy-consuming systems. The large glass facades enhance the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing for panoramic views of the surrounding olive groves.

Furthermore, the design incorporates elements that promote wellness and relaxation. Spaces for meditation and quiet reflection are thoughtfully integrated, inviting visitors to engage with their environment. The attention to detail in both interior and exterior finishes, including the use of locally sourced olive wood, emphasizes craftsmanship and regional identity.

Sustainability Features

The architectural project prioritizes sustainability throughout its design and construction phases. Solar panels integrated into the roof enhance the building's energy efficiency. The choice of renewable materials—including pine timber and cork—underscores the intention to minimize the ecological impact. An innovative approach to water management and rainwater harvesting systems further enhances the project's sustainability profile.

Overall, the Portugal Olive Guest House showcases a balanced approach to architecture that respects the natural landscape while offering a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment. To delve deeper into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and other innovative architectural designs, consider exploring the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its features and ideas.

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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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