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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Affordable Urban Living

Authors:
Maria Camila Cano Zapata, Lucas Federico Navarro Arevalo, Krishna Yadav
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Affordable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design exemplifies sustainable urban living while addressing the need for affordable housing in a densely populated environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates both charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features flexible unit designs that adapt to the needs of diverse households.
03
Utilizes recycled concrete to minimize environmental impact during construction.
04
Integrates communal spaces strategically to foster social interaction among residents.
05
Includes large windows for optimal natural light, enhancing energy efficiency and livability.

The ARCADIA habitat project in Madrid, Spain, represents a calculated response to the pressing demand for affordable housing in an urban setting. This initiative addresses the complexities of modern living by integrating diverse housing typologies within a cohesive framework that promotes community interaction and sustainable practices. The design emphasizes flexibility, allowing for the accommodation of different household sizes, which is increasingly relevant in today's social landscape.

Architectural Design Elements

The layout of ARCADIA habitat is characterized by a modular design that facilitates efficient use of space. **Common areas** are strategically placed within the complex to foster social interactions among residents. These communal zones are complemented by private living units, creating a balance between personal space and community engagement. Each residential unit is crafted to maximize sunlight through large windows and open layouts, which enhances the overall livability of the project.

One of the significant differentiators of this project is its use of **sustainable materials**. The primary structural component is cross-laminated timber (CLT), known for its low environmental impact and efficient construction properties. This choice signals a commitment to reducing the carbon footprint while ensuring structural integrity. The use of recycled concrete further exemplifies the project’s dedication to sustainability by repurposing existing materials, minimizing waste, and addressing the environmental challenges associated with traditional building materials.

Community and Adaptability

The ARCADIA habitat project excels in the integration of community-focused design principles. Open terraces and shared communal spaces cultivate a sense of belonging among residents from various socio-economic backgrounds. These areas serve as essential social hubs, emphasizing the project's goal to create inclusive living environments.

The architectural plans highlight the adaptability of the design. Each housing unit can be modified to meet the evolving needs of its occupants, whether accommodating families, young professionals, or students. This adaptability is crucial in urban areas where demographic trends fluctuate rapidly. Moreover, architectural sections display thoughtful circulation routes that enhance connectivity throughout the site, encouraging movement and interaction among residents.

The incorporation of renewable energy features, such as solar panels, exemplifies the project’s forward-thinking approach. This not only reduces reliance on external energy sources but also educates residents on sustainable practices, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.

In summary, ARCADIA habitat stands out in modern architectural design through its commitment to sustainability, community integration, and adaptability. It serves as a model for future projects aiming to address the challenges of urban living effectively. For those interested in a deeper exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and innovative design strategies, further analysis of the project elements is encouraged.

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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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