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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form Sustainable Urban Living Space

Author:
Hyunmo Kim
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form Sustainable Urban Living Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design integrates sustainable materials with a thoughtful layout to create an urban living space that fosters community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce environmental impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes interior space and light.
04
Includes shared terraces designed for community interaction and engagement.
05
Prioritizes energy efficiency through strategic window placement and natural ventilation.

The project "Open towards NY, Empty Canvas" embodies a thoughtful exploration of architectural design within the urban fabric of New York City. This residential complex is strategically designed to address the complexities of dense urban living. The architectural approach emphasizes community engagement, light, and sustainability, presenting a model that resonates with contemporary urban challenges.

The architectural design comprises a series of interconnected housing units that prioritize individual privacy while facilitating social interactions. The integration of communal spaces, such as shared terraces and landscaped areas, promotes community bonding in a densely populated setting. The overall structure employs a porosity principle, allowing for ample natural light and ventilation, contributing to the overall well-being of the residents.

Unique Design Approaches and Materiality

This project utilizes a combination of cross-laminated timber, glass panels, recycled materials, and traditional brick. These materials are chosen for their sustainability and aesthetic qualities. Cross-laminated timber serves as a primary structural element, providing a light but strong framework that minimizes environmental impact. Large glass panels enhance transparency and connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a seamless dialogue with the urban environment. The use of recycled materials demonstrates an ongoing commitment to sustainable practices, while traditional brick pays homage to New York's architectural heritage, bridging the past with contemporary design.

The geometric forms in the building's design—specifically, the use of diamond and triangular shapes—introduce a dynamic visual language and improve airflow throughout the structure. Such design choices encourage engagement between residents and their surroundings, while also enhancing privacy through strategic orientation and arrangement of living spaces.

Architectural Design and Community Engagement

The layout of "Open towards NY, Empty Canvas" is intentionally organized to foster a sense of community. Each housing unit is carefully positioned to balance privacy with sociability. Shared terraces serve as extensions of private living spaces, inviting residents to interact, while also creating opportunities for community events and gatherings. The design prioritizes outdoor connectivity, enhancing the landscaping within and around the structure.

The architectural plans reveal a clear strategy for maximizing light infiltration through the effective placement of windows and openings. This not only contributes to energy efficiency but also improves the overall aesthetic of the living environments. In terms of architectural sections, the design illustrates a thoughtful arrangement that minimizes heat loss and maximizes daylight, significantly enhancing the living experience.

For further insights into the project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, readers are encouraged to explore the presentation. This will deepen understanding of the architectural ideas that underpin "Open towards NY, Empty Canvas," showcasing how the design meaningfully aligns with urban living trends and community resilience.

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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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