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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glazing Form Sustainable Community Greenhouses

Author:
Malin Persson
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glazing Form Sustainable Community Greenhouses

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and large expanses of glazing, the design creates interconnected greenhouses that facilitate community agriculture and educational activities within a rugged landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a bent A-frame design that enhances natural ventilation and light distribution.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for added durability and fire resistance.
03
Features large expanses of glazing to maximize passive solar gain for plant growth.
04
Connects three distinct greenhouses, promoting multi-functional community activities.
05
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for structural stability and sustainability.

"Green Fingers" is an architectural design project that embodies a response to both environmental conditions and community needs. Located in a landscape characterized by rugged terrain, this project features three interconnected greenhouses that serve diverse functions related to cultivation, social interaction, and education. The design focuses on integrating architectural elements with the natural environment, producing a compact yet flexible space that promotes sustainability and user engagement.

The primary function of "Green Fingers" is to facilitate agricultural activities while also acting as a social hub for the community. Each greenhouse is oriented to maximize sunlight exposure and natural ventilation, which are essential for plant growth. The open layout encourages interaction among users, allowing the greenhouses to be utilized for various activities, including planting, dining, and educational workshops. As such, this project not only addresses food production but also fosters a sense of community and environmental stewardship.

Unique in its approach, "Green Fingers" emphasizes dynamic spatial organization. The varying orientations of the greenhouses respond to climatic conditions, creating sheltered microclimates that enhance usability throughout different seasons. This thoughtful design choice allows areas within the greenhouses to adapt to specific activities, such as food preparation or casual gatherings, without the need for rigid zoning.

The material selection further distinguishes "Green Fingers" from conventional greenhouse designs. The extensive use of glazing captures natural light, while concrete forms the foundation and flooring. Timber is utilized for structural elements, providing an aesthetic warmth that contrasts with the starkness often associated with industrial greenhouses. These materials not only serve functional purposes but also establish a visual connection to the surrounding landscape.

In terms of landscape integration, the design features planting beds and communal areas that seamlessly merge with the built elements. This connection enhances the overall experience for visitors and encourages a hands-on approach to gardening and communal activities. The result is a multifunctional ecosystem design that balances practicality with ecological awareness.

For detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and design concepts of "Green Fingers," readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. This exploration will reveal the carefully considered architectural ideas embodied in this unique project and offer a deeper understanding of its innovative approach to integrating architectural design with ecological principles.

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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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