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Charred Wooden Shingles and Passive Cooling Techniques in A Sustainable Family Residence

Authors:
David Nicolas Derksen, Mohammed Rahmoun
Charred Wooden Shingles and Passive Cooling Techniques in A Sustainable Family Residence

Project in-detail

With charred wooden shingles and wind catchers for natural ventilation, this sustainably designed family residence adapts to changing needs while fostering community connections.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity and reduce construction time.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes space efficiency while allowing for natural light penetration.
04
Wind catchers improve passive ventilation, contributing to energy efficiency.
05
The layout includes flexible rooms that adapt to changing family dynamics and needs.

Al Rubaei is an architectural project that exemplifies a balanced approach to contemporary design while drawing from traditional Arabic architectural influences. Located in a region where community and family are integral to daily life, this project has been meticulously crafted to address the evolving needs of its inhabitants and to foster social interactions.

The design of Al Rubaei focuses on sustainability, adaptability, and connectivity. The spatial organization allows for both private and communal areas, enhancing the functionality of the home while promoting community interactions. The architectural layout includes multiple levels, with the ground floor serving as a hub for family gatherings and activities, while private quarters occupy the upper levels. This arrangement not only supports familial relationships but also accommodates potential changes in family structure over time.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the distinguishing features of Al Rubaei is its emphasis on modular design. The architects employed a strategy that allows spaces to be flexible, modifying their function as families grow or change. This flexibility is reinforced by well-planned layouts that include areas designed to serve multiple purposes, enhancing the usability of the overall dwelling.

In addition to its modularity, the project integrates various sustainable design elements. Passive cooling is achieved through strategically placed cooling walls and traditional wind catchers, promoting natural ventilation. Solar panels supplement energy needs, while green roofs contribute to biodiversity and natural insulation. The materials selected—brick, concrete, glass, wood, and natural stone—not only meet functional requirements but also reflect the cultural heritage of the region.

Environmental and Community Focus

Landscaping also plays a crucial role in the overall design. The surrounding outdoor areas have been designed to encourage interaction between residents. This approach creates a sense of community, with pathways and shared environments that discourage isolation. The choice of native plants ensures that the landscape is both sustainable and aesthetically pleasing, requiring minimal water while enhancing the local ecosystem.

For those interested in further exploring the architectural concepts of Al Rubaei, the project presentation includes detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs. Reviewing these elements will provide deeper insights into the project's functionality and design philosophy, showcasing how Al Rubaei serves not just as a residence, but as a holistic and responsive architectural solution.

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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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