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Charred Wooden Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Elevate Urban Housing Solutions

Authors:
Lena Madlen Purschke, Maximilian Carl Nicolas Seipp, Belen Zevallos borges
Charred Wooden Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Elevate Urban Housing Solutions

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and reinforced concrete, this urban housing solution transforms under-utilized infrastructure into compact living spaces that enhance community connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for effective structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize space and promote natural light.
04
Integrates urban greenery through extensive green roofs to contribute to biodiversity.
05
Transforms under-utilized areas beneath infrastructure into functional communal living spaces.

The architectural project, "Upside Town," presents an innovative approach to urban housing by utilizing existing infrastructural frameworks within a densely populated environment. Located in Cape Town, South Africa, this design capitalizes on the space beneath urban highways, transforming overlooked areas into functional living environments. The overall objective is to integrate residential units with accessible public spaces, addressing urgent housing challenges while promoting community engagement.

Unique Utilization of Urban Infrastructure

"Upside Town" distinguishes itself through its strategic use of reinforced concrete structures that support elevated living spaces while maintaining the integrity of the urban landscape. This approach allows for the creation of residential units that coexist harmoniously with the surrounding city. The design includes compact living units made from engineered timber, providing a sustainable alternative that reduces the environmental footprint associated with traditional construction materials. Large glass facades enhance natural light, while green roofs contribute to urban biodiversity and stormwater management.

Integration of Communal and Private Spaces

The project emphasizes the importance of communal spaces, offering parks and pedestrian walkways strategically placed around and underneath the elevated structures. These areas not only serve as outdoor recreational spaces but also promote social interaction among residents. The pedestrian walkways enhance connectivity to the broader urban environment, encouraging a lifestyle that favors walking and community engagement over vehicular transport.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and design elements involved in "Upside Town," readers are encouraged to explore further details of this project presentation. Engaging with the architectural ideas and designs allows for a comprehensive appreciation of the thoughtful strategies employed in this urban housing initiative.

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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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