Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facade Elevate a Tranquil Retreat Design

Authors:
Rupert Morley, Patrick Allan, Joe Brierley
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facade Elevate a Tranquil Retreat Design

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and expansive glass walls define a retreat designed for sustainability and comfort, harmonizing with its surrounding landscape while providing functional living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while offering a unique visual texture.
02
The use of cross-laminated timber panels contributes to structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes interior space while integrating with the landscape.
04
Elevated post foundation improves water management and minimizes environmental impact.
05
Large glass walls create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments.

The project "The Bothy" is an architectural design that emphasizes a sustainable connection with its natural surroundings. This structure navigates the balance between modern living and the principles of traditional architecture. It serves as a retreat that prioritizes comfort and functionality while adhering to eco-friendly practices. The building is set in a picturesque landscape, characterized by a tranquil body of water, which significantly influences its design.

The architectural form of "The Bothy" features a triangular roof, commonly seen in traditional structures, but updated with contemporary materials and construction techniques. The building is raised on posts, allowing for proper drainage and minimizing environmental impact. Its design reflects simplicity while providing a versatile space that can adapt to various needs.

Material choices play a critical role in the project, with an emphasis on sustainability. Timber, sourced locally, is used extensively for both the exterior cladding and internal finishes, promoting local industry and reducing transportation emissions. Extensive use of glass in windows and doors allows ample natural light into the interior, creating bright and inviting living spaces while framing views of the landscape. Steel elements provide structural stability and enhance durability against weather effects, ensuring the longevity of the building.

Natural Integration and Unique Design Approaches

One of the project’s unique features is its integration with the landscape, promoting a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments. The overhanging roof design offers shade and creates a sheltered outdoor space, enhancing the usability of the area adjacent to the structure. This design approach fosters a connection with nature, allowing occupants to engage with the surroundings comfortably.

The project’s sustainable features extend beyond material choice. It incorporates systems for renewable energy and water management, potentially utilizing marine electricity generation and rainwater harvesting strategies. These elements are intentionally designed to reduce ecological footprints and enhance the overall sustainability of the living environment.

Versatile Space Planning and Functionality

The layout of "The Bothy" maximizes functionality while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic. The open floor plan encourages flexibility, allowing spaces to be utilized for various functions—sleeping, gathering, or working—according to user needs. The warm timber finishes contribute to an inviting atmosphere, which is central to the concept of a restful retreat. The design harmonizes comfort with utility, ensuring that the space can adapt to different lifestyles.

Overall, "The Bothy" is a clear example of how contemporary architecture can draw inspiration from traditional forms while addressing modern sustainability challenges. For more detailed insights into its architectural features, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. This further exploration will provide a comprehensive understanding of the innovative approaches used in "The Bothy."

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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.

`

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

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy