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Charred Wooden Shingles and Passive Design in a Multifunctional Guest House

Authors:
Maryna Harbar, Yurii Harbar, Volodymyr Buka
Charred Wooden Shingles and Passive Design in a Multifunctional Guest House

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and extensive use of passive design, the structure provides a multifunctional space that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while facilitating community engagement and contemplation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a central olive tree as a focal element in the design.
02
Employs charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Features a multi-purpose assembly hall designed for diverse community activities.
04
Integrates passive design strategies to optimize energy efficiency and comfort.
05
Utilizes native vegetation in landscaping to promote local biodiversity.

The Portugal Olive Guest House is an architectural project located in Barreira, Portugal, designed to provide a harmonious space for visitors while promoting interaction with the surrounding landscape. The guest house serves multiple functions, intended for both communal gatherings and individual reflection. The design strategically integrates the olive tree as a central element, symbolizing cultural heritage and environmental connection.

The layout of the guest house is carefully organized into distinct sections, including the main building, guest accommodations, community spaces, and outdoor areas. A notable feature is the multi-purpose assembly hall, which is designed for various activities, from group meetings to meditation. The courtyard, surrounding the assembly hall, offers a tranquil space for outdoor gatherings, while also enhancing privacy.

The choice of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and local architectural traditions. Concrete provides structural integrity, while wood adds warmth and visual comfort. The extensive use of glass facilitates natural light and connects indoor spaces to the views outside, ensuring a seamless transition between the built environment and nature.

Functionality is a core consideration in this design. Each space is delineated yet interconnected, fostering a sense of community without sacrificing individual privacy. Strategic planting in the surrounding landscape contributes to the guest house's ecological ethos, utilizing native flora that supports local biodiversity.

Integration of Outdoor Landscapes A unique aspect of the Portugal Olive Guest House is its strong emphasis on outdoor integration. The design features multiple terraces that overlook scenic views and incorporate water elements that enhance the sensory experience. These outdoor spaces promote relaxation and connectivity with nature, providing an essential counterbalance to indoor activities.

Moreover, the inclusion of an artistic installation in the form of an olive press enriches the narrative of the space. This not only serves as a cultural reference but also engages guests in the region's agricultural history. The relationship between architecture and art is tightly interwoven, contributing to a holistic visitor experience.

Sustainable Design Strategies The architectural design incorporates numerous sustainable strategies aimed at minimizing the ecological footprint. Solar panels are strategically placed to harness renewable energy, while rainwater harvesting systems are integrated for irrigation and non-potable uses. The careful selection of materials also emphasizes low-impact construction methods, ensuring that the building aligns with its natural surroundings.

Thermal performance is augmented through the use of efficient insulation techniques and passive solar heating, showcasing the project's commitment to energy efficiency. This aligns the guest house with contemporary architectural trends focusing on sustainability and resource conservation.

The Portugal Olive Guest House represents a thoughtful approach to modern architecture, combining aesthetics, function, and sustainability. For those looking to understand the complexities of this project further, a review of the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas is encouraged to appreciate the meticulous planning and innovative solutions employed throughout the design process.

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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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