Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Timber Form a Resilient Coastal Residence

Author:
Isabella Pedrosa
Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Timber Form a Resilient Coastal Residence

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and recycled timber, the residence elevates its footprint to enhance coastal resilience while providing flexible living spaces tailored for sustainable lifestyles.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated on stilts to provide flood resilience and panoramic bay views.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for efficient structural performance.
04
Features operable wooden shutters to optimize natural ventilation and light control.
05
Designed with a bent A-frame shape for improved wind resistance and energy efficiency.

The Seashell House is an architectural project located in Stiltsville, an area of Biscayne Bay, Miami, known for its unique wooden stilt houses. The project integrates contemporary design with sustainable practices, promoting an innovative living space that responds to both environmental challenges and cultural heritage. It reflects a commitment to ecological sensitivity along with modern functionalities, making it a notable example in contemporary architecture.

The architecture of the Seashell House embraces a seashell-inspired form, enhancing its connection to the surrounding aquatic environment. The design elevates the structure on stilts, a decision that not only provides flood resilience but also affords sweeping views of the bay. The layout is open and adaptable, catering to a variety of living arrangements while fostering interaction with nature. This flexible design is particularly pertinent for its intended occupants, such as marina biologists and environmental planners, who require a home that aligns with their professional activities and encourages engagement with the local ecosystem.

Sustainable architectural practices are at the forefront of this project. The use of recycled timber for structural elements minimizes environmental impact and aligns with sustainable building conventions. Additionally, the integration of rainwater harvesting systems and solar panels enhances the self-sufficiency of the home. Glass and insulated panels are strategically placed to allow natural light to penetrate while maintaining energy efficiency. The operable wooden shutters facilitate control over airflow and light, further optimizing energy consumption within the space.

The Seashell House distinguishes itself through its unique architectural approaches that address climate adaptation. Its dual focus on aesthetic appeal and practical functionality ensures that it serves both its occupants and the environment effectively. The elevation techniques utilized not only provide basic flood protection but also facilitate a dynamic interaction between the living space and its natural surroundings.

For a deeper understanding of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that reveal the intricacies of this sophisticated work. Investigating these elements can provide valuable insights into the innovative architectural ideas that shape the Seashell House and its contribution to residential architecture within coastal contexts.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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.

`

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

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy