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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Highlighting Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Crystal R Waddell
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Highlighting Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles envelop cross-laminated timber structures, creating an eco-sensitive, adaptable housing solution that fosters community engagement in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles serve as a weather-resistant exterior, enhancing durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Upper-level units include integrated shared greenhouses for local food production.
03
Pollinator gardens on the roof attract biodiversity and support environmental health.
04
A micro-lift system improves accessibility for all residents throughout the building.
05
Timber frame construction prioritizes local materials to reduce environmental impact.

The architectural project PLAN(T)ED is situated at the intersection of Bathurst and Wolesley Streets in Toronto and focuses on providing a model for sustainable urban living. This project illustrates an innovative approach to middle-density housing, emphasizing the integration of ecological sensitivity, communal resources, and community engagement. By transforming an underutilized public site, PLAN(T)ED aims to enhance both neighborhood livability and environmental sustainability.

The project consists of multi-layered housing units designed to optimize space usage while promoting community interaction. Upper levels feature shared greenhouses that contribute to both food production and ecological education, while the lower levels are designed for family-oriented living. There are also dedicated commercial spaces intended to serve the daily needs of residents, such as a mini-grocery store and cafes. The architectural layout encourages accessibility and social connectivity, allowing for varied interactions among residents.

Sustainability is a key theme in this project, reflected in several unique design elements. The roof features pollinator gardens and green spaces, contributing to local biodiversity and improving air quality. The structure utilizes wood frame construction, which significantly reduces the carbon footprint compared to traditional building materials. Additionally, solar panels and rain screens are integrated into the building design, promoting energy efficiency and water management.

Flexibility is another significant characteristic of PLAN(T)ED. Housing units are designed to be modular, allowing for adaptability to changing family sizes and occupancy. This versatility caters to demographic shifts, ensuring that the architecture remains relevant and functional over time. Fold-out features in the living spaces enhance usability without sacrificing area, contributing to a pragmatic design ethic.

This project presents a significant advancement in architectural ideas related to urban housing. By aligning residential units with green infrastructure and communal activities, PLAN(T)ED diverges from conventional housing projects that often prioritize density over livability. Its emphasis on ecological systems within urban environments sets a new precedent for future architectural developments.

For those interested in a deeper exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and detailed design elements, the presentation of PLAN(T)ED offers comprehensive insights into its approach and execution. Review the project presentation to discover more about its innovative design methodologies and community-focused solutions.

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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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