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Charred Wooden Shingles and Lattice Shading Define a Modern Courtyard Residence

Author:
Reem A
Charred Wooden Shingles and Lattice Shading Define a Modern Courtyard Residence

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and enhanced by intricate lattice shading, this modern residence focuses on indoor-outdoor connectivity in a thoughtfully designed courtyard setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for efficient thermal performance and structural integrity.
03
Features a central courtyard that optimizes natural light and promotes seamless indoor-outdoor connectivity.
04
Employs intricate lattice shading to regulate sunlight and enhance privacy throughout the living spaces.
05
Utilizes a bent A-frame design, creating unique spatial dynamics and visual interest.

The Contemporary Courtyard House embodies a modern interpretation of traditional dwelling concepts, focusing on sustainability, natural ventilation, and community interaction through its architectural design. This project integrates a central courtyard that provides not only an outdoor living space but also enhances light and airflow throughout the structure. Designed to balance functionality with aesthetic appeal, the house serves as a residence that respects its environment and connects its occupants to nature.

Central to this project is the courtyard, which invites natural light into the interior while allowing for private outdoor areas accessible from multiple spaces within the home. This design encourages a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living, supporting both privacy and communal interaction. The choice of materials is intentional, utilizing concrete for structural strength, stone for visual interest, glass for transparency and connectivity, and wood to add warmth to vital elements such as doors and windows.

Unique Design Approach: Integration of Traditional Elements What sets the Contemporary Courtyard House apart from standard designs is its innovative integration of traditional architectural elements. The use of shading devices, reminiscent of historical structures, has been adapted to modern aesthetics, employing contemporary materials while maintaining functionality. The decorative screens serve both as a visual focal point and as a mechanism for managing sunlight, thereby optimizing energy efficiency and comfort within the home.

Spatial Organization: Clear Hierarchy and Connectivity The spatial layout demonstrates an effective organization between public, semi-private, and private areas. The ground floor features communal spaces such as the kitchen and dining area, optimized for family interaction and accessibility from the central courtyard. The upper levels house private bedrooms, strategically placed to ensure tranquility and exclusive outdoor views. This organization not only enhances usability but also reinforces the project's identity as a contemporary take on communal living.

The architectural plans detail the careful consideration of zoning regulations, ensuring compliance while maximizing the site’s potential. The elevations reveal the thoughtful façade composition, with varying window placements allowing for both aesthetic variation and functional light control.

This project invites readers to explore its architectural plans, sections, and design strategies for a deeper understanding of its unique attributes. Engage further with architectural designs, as the visual aspects of this project highlight the innovative applications and ideas that contribute to its contemporary relevance. The integration of sustainable practices and traditional motifs provides a comprehensive perspective on modern architectural solutions.

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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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