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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Walls Defining Community Spaces in a Transformed Quarry Landscape

Author:
Denys Breznyak
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Walls Defining Community Spaces in a Transformed Quarry Landscape

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles blend seamlessly with expansive glass walls to create a community hub that revitalizes a former quarry landscape while fostering social interaction and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide a fire-resistant exterior while integrating with the natural landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity and sustainability, sourced locally.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space and creates a distinctive silhouette against the horizon.
04
Large glass facades promote natural light and visual connectivity with the surrounding forest.
05
Native flora landscaping supports local biodiversity and minimizes environmental impact.

The architectural design project under review integrates the built environment with the natural landscape, emphasizing a philosophy that reflects on time and transition. Situated in a former quarry area, the structure serves as a multifaceted gathering space, facilitating connection among occupants while articulating a narrative of renewal and transformation. The architectural intent is to create an immersive experience that acknowledges both local history and the surrounding ecological context.

Translucent glass facades invite natural light and frame views of the verdant landscape, establishing a visual and physical relationship between indoor and outdoor areas. The building’s form is characterized by a modern composition, with overhangs and terraces that not only provide shelter but also enhance the connection to nature. The use of local materials, including reinforced concrete, wood, and stone, further anchors the design in its surroundings, promoting sustainability and regional identity.

Unique Design Approaches

This project distinguishes itself from conventional architectural solutions through its emphasis on integrating ecological principles within its design framework. By utilizing sustainable materials that reflect the historical significance of the quarry, the project acknowledges the site’s legacy while also promoting biodiversity. Paths interspersed throughout the landscape encourage exploration and interaction, reinforcing the idea of a journey through both space and time.

The structure effectively merges multi-functional areas with a focus on community engagement. Open spaces designed for gatherings foster social connectivity, which is intentional in its layout, allowing for flexible use while accommodating various activities. Large gathering spaces seamlessly transition into more intimate areas, supporting diverse interactions and showcasing a thoughtful approach to spatial organization.

Architectural Integration of Landscape

The incorporation of landscape design is just as pivotal as the architectural elements within this project. Native vegetation replaces conventional landscaping, reflecting an understanding of local ecology and promoting environmental stewardship. The design encourages users to engage with nature, creating an educational component that raises awareness about the importance of natural habitats.

Both the interior and exterior spaces are crafted to maximize the sensory experience. The balance of natural and artificial light enhances different moments throughout the day, thereby influencing the occupants' mood and interaction with the environment. Additionally, this attention to lighting design emphasizes the connection between the structure and its ecological surroundings, offering an adaptive, dynamic sense of place.

The project exemplifies a comprehensive architectural solution that reflects on history, engages with community, and harmonizes with its natural context. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and innovative architectural designs, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed project presentation for further information on its functional and aesthetic components.

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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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