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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Define Sustainable Urban Living Space

Author:
Ryan Owens
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Define Sustainable Urban Living Space

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and extensive green roofs, the development transforms an existing structure into a cohesive living space that prioritizes sustainability and community engagement in downtown San Diego.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a green roof that enhances biodiversity and supports urban agriculture.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for both aesthetics and fire resistance.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural efficiency and reduce carbon footprint.
04
Design includes extensive communal areas to foster community interaction and connectivity.
05
Integrates autonomous vehicle infrastructure to promote sustainable transportation solutions.

Nexus San Diego is an architectural project located at 389 6th Ave, in downtown San Diego, California. This project involves the adaptive reuse of an existing parking structure to create a mixed-use development that addresses the growing demand for urban housing while integrating communal spaces. Nexus aims to enhance urban living through its design, focusing on sustainability, community engagement, and livability.

The project comprises various residential units, outdoor areas, and communal spaces, optimizing land use in a densely populated urban environment. By repurposing an existing building, Nexus minimizes the environmental impact associated with new construction and exemplifies a modern approach to urban development. The architectural design emphasizes harmony with the surrounding context, reflecting both the dynamic nature of the urban landscape and the necessity for green spaces in city living.

Design Innovation Through Sustainability

Nexus distinguishes itself through its innovative sustainability strategies, which are central to its design philosophy. The building incorporates high-performance materials, such as steel, glass, concrete, and wood, enhancing energy efficiency. The extensive use of glass in the façade allows natural light to penetrate deep into the interiors, reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Concrete provides structural integrity, while wood elements offer warmth to residential spaces.

Unique features include green roofs and urban gardens that not only contribute to biodiversity but also promote urban agriculture among residents. Rainwater harvesting systems minimize water usage, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to sustainability. Additionally, the integration of autonomous vehicle infrastructure showcases a forward-thinking design that addresses future urban mobility.

Community-Centric Spaces

Nexus prioritizes community engagement by providing ample shared spaces that foster social interaction. The outdoor patios and communal areas are designed to encourage residents to connect and participate in community activities. These spaces are complemented by landscaping that incorporates local flora, enhancing the aesthetic and ecological value of the project.

Overall, Nexus San Diego serves as a practical example of how contemporary architecture can effectively address urban challenges while promoting sustainability and community living. For a deeper understanding of the project's architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation and its detailed exploration of unique architectural ideas.

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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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