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Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Containers Form a Multifunctional Sustainable Research Hub

Authors:
Asli Aydin çağbayir, Emine Derya Ertan şen, Tuğçe Nur Coşkun, Ebru Keklik, Tansu Dinçer
Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Containers Form a Multifunctional Sustainable Research Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and repurposed shipping containers, the design creates a sustainable research hub that fosters collaboration and education in innovative environmental practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes repurposed shipping containers as structural elements to enhance sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels that support efficient construction and thermal performance.
04
Design includes a bent A-frame structure to optimize natural light and ventilation.
05
Integrates landscaped areas that promote biodiversity and environmental awareness.

The İzmir Sustainability Center, known as S-HUB, presents a contemporary architectural design focused on promoting sustainable research and education. Situated in İzmir, Turkey, the center combines innovative construction techniques with a commitment to environmental stewardship. This project serves not only as a functional workspace for academics and researchers but also as a catalyst for sustainability initiatives within the community.

Innovatively designed to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing, S-HUB includes dedicated spaces for workshops, offices, meeting halls, and laboratories. The layout is modular, allowing for flexible use and adaptation to various activities. Natural light is maximized through large windows and strategic openings, reducing reliance on artificial illumination. The seamless integration of indoor and outdoor areas encourages interaction with the surrounding landscape, enhancing the user experience.

Sustainability-Driven Design Approaches

A critical aspect of the S-HUB is its strategic material selection and construction techniques. The project employs reclaimed materials, such as repurposed shipping containers, which minimize construction waste and contribute to the circular economy. Additionally, wooden structural elements and earth-packed components showcase local resources and promote energy efficiency.

The building's roof incorporates photovoltaic (PV) panels that capture solar energy, reinforcing the center’s commitment to sustainable practices. Furthermore, passive design principles are applied through the use of shading devices that control solar gain while maintaining occupant comfort. Each design element is purposefully integrated to ensure the building operates as a model of sustainability.

Unique Architectural Features

S-HUB features an innovative modular structural system that adapts to the environmental conditions of İzmir. The design includes vertical circulation elements that improve accessibility and encourage movement between levels, promoting a sense of community among users. Furthermore, specialized research areas allow for hands-on experimentation, bridging theory and practice in sustainability education.

The architectural plan facilitates a blend of private and communal spaces, encouraging engagement between researchers and the community. The incorporation of landscaping elements further enhances the functional relationship between built and natural environments, presenting an approach that aspires for ecological harmony.

The İzmir Sustainability Center exemplifies a well-executed architectural design focused on sustainability. For a comprehensive understanding of the project's design philosophy and implementation, explore the detailed architectural plans, sections, and specific design elements. Engaging with these materials will provide deeper insights into the innovative approaches that define S-HUB.

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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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