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Charred Wooden Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Combine for Sustainable Community Living

Author:
Diego Rodriguez
Charred Wooden Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Combine for Sustainable Community Living

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and a robust concrete structure create a visually cohesive residence that enhances community interaction while prioritizing sustainable living practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to rapid construction and structural stability.
03
The central courtyard design promotes natural ventilation and enhances social interaction.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems integrated into the roof support sustainable water management.
05
The structure's orientation maximizes daylight exposure and minimizes energy consumption.

The Guest House of Family Verde is an architectural project located in Barreiro, Leria. This guest house serves as both a residence and a community gathering space, designed to integrate seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. The architecture reflects a careful consideration of the site’s geographic features and cultural context, promoting a sense of connection between the built environment and nature. By utilizing sustainable building practices and materials, the guest house aims to minimize its ecological footprint while providing functional living spaces.

The project is organized around a central courtyard, which acts as a focal point for both private and communal activities. The spatial arrangement allows for a fluid transition between internal and external areas, encouraging interaction among occupants and enhancing the overall user experience. Key features of the design include expansive living spaces, strategically placed bedrooms for privacy, and designated areas for contemplation. The use of large sliding glass doors blurs the lines between indoors and outdoors, facilitating natural light and promoting a sense of openness.

Unique Design Approaches

A distinguishing aspect of this project is its dedication to harmony with the natural environment. The architectural design employs locally sourced materials, such as reinforced concrete and timber, to create a structure that resonates with the surrounding landscape. The integration of passive solar design principles enhances energy efficiency while providing comfort to users. The roof design accommodates rainwater harvesting, underscoring a commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management.

Architectural elements such as the carefully modulated roof lines and wall finishes emphasize the relationship with the site, drawing inspiration from the traditional vernacular architecture of the region. The building's form reflects the contours of the landscape, creating visual continuity and encouraging an appreciation for the natural surroundings.

Site Integration and Use of Space

The site strategy is informed by the topographical variations, with the guest house positioned to optimize views and sunlight exposure. It is bordered by a variety of communal spaces, including gardens and paths, which complement the guest house's function as a welcoming retreat for family and visitors. The organization of the spaces promotes accessibility and enhances the overall interaction with the landscape, making the guest house a multifunctional space for relaxation and socialization.

For further details on the architectural plans, sections, and design concepts behind the Guest House of Family Verde, readers are encouraged to explore the comprehensive project presentation available. This exploration will provide deeper insights into the innovative architectural ideas and design elements that characterize this unique project.

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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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