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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Enhance Sustainable Living in a Villa

Author:
Petra Schindlerová
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Enhance Sustainable Living in a Villa

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive skylights, the villa integrates sustainable materials and natural light to create a harmonious living space that embraces its landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Features expansive skylights that provide natural lighting tailored to each room's function.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for efficient structural support and thermal performance.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame that minimizes visual impact on the surrounding landscape.
05
Promotes energy efficiency through passive solar design elements and strategic orientation.

The project "On the Edge" is a residential architectural design located in the Czech Republic, emphasizing the relationship between architecture and its natural environment. This design integrates elements that prioritize light, space, and a dialogue with the surrounding landscape. The villa’s configuration has been methodically planned to enhance the living experiences of its occupants through the strategic use of light and carefully chosen materials.

The function of this architecture revolves around creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for everyday living while providing areas for relaxation, social interactions, and connectivity with the natural surroundings. The layout features distinct zones that cater to various activities, ensuring that each space serves its intended purpose effectively.

Innovative Light Manipulation A key aspect of the architectural design is the innovative approach to light manipulation. The villa incorporates multiple skylights that are strategically placed to optimize natural illumination. North-facing skylights deliver a consistent, diffused quality of light ideal for private areas, such as bedrooms and study zones. In contrast, south-facing skylights are designed to flood communal spaces with direct sunlight, accommodating the dynamic needs of family life and social interaction. This tailored approach to lighting not only enhances comfort but also positively influences the overall ambiance within the home.

Integration with Natural Landscapes The design's integration with the natural topography of the site is particularly noteworthy. The structure features sloped rooftops that follow the contour of the land, minimizing disruption to the landscape while preserving views. This design choice not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also fosters a sense of harmony between the built environment and the natural surroundings. Landscaping elements work in conjunction with the building design, further reinforcing its connection to the environment.

Material Selection and Sustainability Materiality plays a significant role in achieving an energy-efficient residence. The project utilizes wood for structural components, providing thermal insulation and a natural aesthetic. Extensive use of glass elements maximizes views and facilitates a connection with nature, while concrete foundations ensure structural durability. This careful selection of materials contributes to the overall sustainability of the building, reducing the ecological footprint while enhancing user experience.

The architectural design of "On the Edge" offers a detailed examination of how effective spatial organization, innovative light manipulation, and thoughtful integration with the landscape can create a functional and aesthetically pleasing home. For further insights into this project, including architectural plans, sections, and unique design features, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its 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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