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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Define Sustainable Guest Homes in Rural Setting

Author:
Arthur Schellenberg
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Define Sustainable Guest Homes in Rural Setting

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and locally sourced stone, these thoughtfully designed guest homes seamlessly blend with their natural surroundings while prioritizing sustainability and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates locally sourced stone to enhance thermal performance.
02
Features a circular layout to promote community interaction while ensuring privacy.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
04
Integrates solar panels and wind turbines for comprehensive energy solutions.
05
Employs natural ventilation through strategically placed large windows.

The *Sunrise Guest Homes* project exemplifies a contemporary approach to architecture that prioritizes sustainability and harmonious integration with nature. Located in a serene landscape, this project features several guest homes designed to coexist with their environment while providing functional living spaces for visitors. The architectural design emphasizes an organic connection between the interior and the outdoor scenery, facilitating a seamless transition between the two.

Environmental Integration and Design Approach

The primary focus of the *Sunrise Guest Homes* project is its commitment to sustainability. Each residence is strategically oriented to maximize natural light and optimize energy efficiency. The extensive use of glass in the façades allows for abundant daylight while offering occupants expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The incorporation of solar panels and wind turbines supports the buildings’ energy needs, showcasing a holistic approach to reducing the ecological footprint.

The material palette has been carefully selected to enhance the overall design while ensuring longevity and resilience. Natural wood, likely cedar, is prominently featured in the exterior cladding, complementing the stone foundation that connects the buildings to their site. The choice of local stone not only supports regional craftsmanship but also reinforces the connection to the area’s geological characteristics. These materials also contribute to the thermal performance of the homes, ensuring a comfortable indoor environment throughout the seasons.

Community-Centric Features

An essential aspect of the *Sunrise Guest Homes* project is the community-oriented layout. The arrangement of the guest homes encourages interaction among visitors while maintaining individual privacy. The circular configuration creates shared communal spaces, fostering a sense of belonging. This design strategy is becoming increasingly relevant in modern architectural practices, where the importance of social interaction is recognized in residential planning.

Additionally, the project includes landscaping elements that enhance the natural environment. Native plants and efficient irrigation systems are incorporated, supporting biodiversity while minimizing resource consumption. The pathways and outdoor spaces are designed to facilitate exploration and connection with nature. This meticulously considered landscape design complements the architectural intent, reinforcing the overall project narrative.

Architectural Plans and Details

The architectural plans demonstrate thoughtful operational flow and usability. The open-plan concept within each guest home maximizes available space, allowing for flexible usage. Bedrooms are designed to enhance comfort, with windows positioned to frame picturesque views and provide natural ventilation. Sustainable water management strategies, including greywater recycling, are integrated into the design, further emphasizing the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

To fully appreciate the intricacies of the *Sunrise Guest Homes* project, it is recommended to explore the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs. Understanding the technical aspects and visual representations can offer deeper insights into the innovative features implemented within this well-conceived architectural endeavor. Visitors are encouraged to review the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of the architectural ideas and design outcomes involved in this thoughtful project.

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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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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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MICROHOME
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Kinderspace
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