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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Create Dynamic Community Spaces Over Transit Infrastructure

Author:
Chang Yuan Max Hsu
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Create Dynamic Community Spaces Over Transit Infrastructure

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass panels, the design integrates community spaces with transit infrastructure, enhancing urban living along Tokyo's Shuto Expressway.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features expansive glass walls to maximize natural light and urban views.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame that enhances architectural expression and space utilization.
05
Strategically integrates community areas within transit infrastructure to promote social interaction.

The architectural project located along the Shuto Expressway in Tokyo represents an innovative integration of urban living and transportation infrastructure. It serves the dual function of a community space and a connection point for commuters, addressing the challenges of high-density environments. The design embodies principles of adaptability and sustainability while reflecting the cultural context of the city.

The project employs a range of materials including wood, glass, concrete, and metal, each chosen for its functional and aesthetic qualities. The use of wood creates a warm atmosphere, while glass allows for natural light and visual continuity between spaces. Concrete provides structural integrity and durability, and metal contributes to modernity, enhancing both the functional aspects and the visual appeal of the architecture. The overall layout favors open floor plans that foster interaction and communal activities, which align with traditional Japanese living practices.

Unique Design Approaches

The project's design incorporates the concept of Pet Architecture, which emphasizes human interaction and community-centric spaces. This architectural idea prioritizes adaptability within the urban fabric of Tokyo, where space constraints often challenge conventional living environments. The strategic use of glass in the building's facade maximizes views of the expressway while ensuring sound attenuation, a crucial consideration in a noise-intensive area.

This project also stands out due to its placement within an existing urban infrastructure. By transforming the expressway’s underutilized spaces into vibrant community areas, it links transportation with everyday life, creating a new model for urban architecture. Its multifunctional spaces allow for a variety of uses, accommodating changing needs and demographics over time, thus enhancing the long-term viability of the design.

Architectural Details and Functionality

Architectural details such as large glass panels not only enhance the building's aesthetic but also improve energy efficiency through natural lighting and ventilation. The careful arrangement of communal areas, private spaces, and functional zones promotes a cohesive living environment. The design favors an open layout that facilitates easy navigation, encouraging community interaction.

In addition to addressing functional requirements, the project successfully incorporates cultural elements, reflecting the heritage and lifestyle of the surrounding community. The balance of public and private areas enables diverse interactions, catering to both residents and visitors.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and designs, exploring the project presentation is encouraged. Delve into the architectural ideas that shape this innovative space and discover how this project effectively responds to the challenges of urban living in Tokyo.

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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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