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Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Joinery Shaping a Community Support Center

Authors:
Yijia Zhang, Mengshu He, Yishu Yu, Zixu Zhen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Joinery Shaping a Community Support Center

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and a modular joinery approach, the center provides a supportive environment for women facing discrimination, fostering community engagement through its thoughtfully designed residential and communal spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular layout that allows for flexible reconfiguration of internal spaces.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels that contribute to sustainability and structural integrity.
04
Designed with large windows to promote natural light and visibility throughout the center.
05
Integrates community gathering areas to facilitate social interactions and support services.

The architectural design project, titled "Anti-Discrimination Center in Shinjuku," is a focused response to the challenges associated with discrimination, particularly against women. Situated in the bustling Shinjuku district of Tokyo, this project intertwines functional spaces with community-oriented programs aimed at offering support and promoting awareness. It plays a crucial role in addressing societal issues within an urban context, ensuring that architecture serves both practical and social purposes.

The architectural concept employs a modular approach based on traditional Japanese construction techniques, specifically the Dougong method, known for its intricate joinery. This technique not only provides a nod to cultural heritage but also emphasizes a sustainable construction ethos through the use of locally sourced timber. The design includes various residential units and community spaces, providing flexible functionalities that cater to the needs of marginalized individuals.

Design Outcomes and Spatial Organization

The architectural design allows for an interconnected flow between public and private areas, creating a dynamic space where community members can engage in a safe and supportive environment. Essential components of the project include small, medium, and large apartments designed to accommodate diverse family structures, as well as multifunctional communal areas designated for workshops, educational programs, and social gatherings.

Large windows and glass facades are strategically placed to foster transparency, contributing to a sense of openness and safety. These features not only enhance natural light intake but also serve as a visual invitation for community interaction. The distinct modular layout allows for adaptability in internal configurations, making it feasible to reallocate spaces as needs evolve over time.

Innovative Design Approaches

The project's architectural approach stands out through its integration of social advocacy within its structural design. Different from conventional support centers, the Anti-Discrimination Center prioritizes user experience by incorporating features that encourage interaction and inclusivity. Outdoor spaces are designed for communal gatherings and events, promoting a sense of belonging among users.

The site selection and orientation consider the surrounding landscape, offering views of Mount Fuji, which enhances the emotional and visual appeal of the center. The design's dialogue between traditional and modern techniques emphasizes durability and resilience, ensuring that the building remains relevant and functional in the long term.

For additional insights, it is recommended that readers explore the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas presented for a detailed understanding of this innovative project. Such an examination offers a comprehensive look into the thoughtful integration of social needs and architectural principles that drives this development.

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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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