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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roof Integration in a Sustainable Urban Habitat

Author:
Mitchell W Joachim
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roof Integration in a Sustainable Urban Habitat

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a green roof, the architectural endeavor exemplifies sustainable design while providing essential community spaces in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for efficient structural support and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Includes a green roof to improve insulation and promote biodiversity.
05
Integrates community spaces designed for multifunctional use, fostering social interaction.

The architectural project under analysis is a contemporary structure that exemplifies innovative design approaches while responding to its environmental context. Its design integrates functionality with aesthetic considerations, delivering a cohesive living or working environment that caters to the users' needs. Using a combination of materials, this project emphasizes sustainability, efficiency, and a connection to its surroundings, establishing a significant relationship between built form and nature.

The project effectively highlights the transition between internal and external spaces, utilizing large windows and open layouts to create a sense of continuity and flow. This approach not only enhances natural light penetration but also encourages interaction with the surrounding landscape. The integration of green spaces, possibly through terraces or gardens, serves to minimize the urban heat island effect while promoting biodiversity.

Design elements include a clear hierarchy of spaces, where communal areas are distinct from private sections, facilitating both social interaction and privacy. The choice of materials such as concrete, wood, and glass reflects a careful consideration of durability and aesthetics. Concrete provides structural integrity, while wood adds warmth and texture, creating a balanced environment conducive to comfort and tranquility.

Unique Characteristics of Design Approach

Central to the project are its innovative features, such as the use of passive design techniques. These techniques prioritize energy efficiency by maximizing natural ventilation and thermal comfort. Carefully positioned overhangs and shading devices serve to reduce solar gain, ensuring that indoor temperatures remain stable throughout the year.

The architectural design does not solely focus on aesthetics but incorporates sustainability as a core principle. Roof gardens or green roofs may be present, further enhancing insulation and absorbing rainwater. The integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, marks a significant commitment to minimizing the structure's carbon footprint.

The project stands out among conventional designs through its commitment to resilience against climate challenges, thus providing a long-term solution to urban living concerns. The incorporation of smart technology within the building’s systems aids in optimizing resource use, creating a modern living experience that prioritizes user convenience and environmental responsibility.

Detailed Architectural Elements

The internal layout is organized to support functional efficiency, with zoning that clearly distinguishes between public and private realms. Open-plan spaces are thoughtfully designed to accommodate various activities while maintaining acoustic privacy.

Materials have been selected not only for their structural properties but also for their environmental impact. The use of sustainably sourced timber, energy-efficient glass, and high-performance insulation reflects a mindful approach to construction. Each material contributes to the overall performance of the building, promoting longevity and ease of maintenance.

Further analysis of the architectural plans, sections, and designs will reveal the intricate details of the project, showcasing how every element contributes to a harmonious and functional environment. The careful integration of architectural ideas emphasizes a holistic approach to design, ensuring that this project epitomizes modern architectural practice.

For a comprehensive understanding of the project, including its architectural plans, sections, and specific design details, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation available. This will provide deeper insights into the architectural narrative and the innovative solutions employed throughout the design process.

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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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