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Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens in a Sustainable Community Hub Design

Author:
Wan Chuen Ng
Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens in a Sustainable Community Hub Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and integrating vertical gardens, the design promotes sustainable urban living while serving as a community hub that fosters collaboration and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates vertical gardens to improve air quality and promote biodiversity.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for optimized structural performance and sustainability.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to maximize natural light and support diverse functions.
05
Integrates communal spaces specifically for fostering collaboration among residents and small businesses.

The architectural project "Hong Kong – A Bridge City of Duality" aims to transform urban spaces within Hong Kong to enhance the city’s role as a global talent immigration hub. This initiative addresses pressing issues such as high living costs, a shortage of affordable spaces for small businesses, and under-utilized industrial areas. The design aims to create a vibrant, inclusive environment that fosters community interaction and economic development.

Integrating the historical essence of Hong Kong as a melting pot for talent and innovation, the project is envisioned as a response to the evolving needs of its residents. The design features a multi-layered zoning approach that intelligently organizes space to support various functions such as retail, co-working, and residential areas. This strategic overlap enhances connectivity while promoting local economic activities and cultural exchanges.

Unique Design Approaches

What distinguishes this project is its emphasis on the metaphor of a bridge, representing both physical and social connections. The layout features an innovative configuration of blocks that allow for flexibility in use, moving away from traditional singular-purpose spaces. The lower levels are designated for commercial activities, encouraging public engagement and making economic opportunities accessible. Meanwhile, mid-levels focus on communal spaces such as co-working areas that cater to the needs of modern professionals. Upper levels accommodate diverse residential units, addressing the city’s high-density living requirements.

The architectural design incorporates sustainable principles by utilizing locally sourced materials, integrating green roofs, and including vertical gardens to improve biodiversity within the urban fabric. This focus on sustainability not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to environmental health. Extensive use of glass and concrete strategically maximizes natural light while providing the structural integrity necessary for vertical development. The resulting transparency in the design symbolizes openness and inclusivity.

Spatial Organization and Connectivity

The spatial organization of the project further emphasizes connectivity among various urban fragments. Key features include a central connector that enhances pedestrian flow, facilitating informal interactions among residents and visitors. The aim is to encourage a sense of community within the densely populated environment of Hong Kong. By utilizing under-utilized areas and transforming them into cooperative spaces, the project creates a platform for diverse activities and promotes a sustainable lifestyle.

The careful integration of commercial, communal, and residential functions fosters a dynamic urban environment that aligns with contemporary needs. The design addresses challenges such as affordability and accessibility while ensuring that the historical context of Hong Kong is preserved and respected.

Readers interested in understanding the intricacies of this project are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and design details further. Gaining deeper insights into the architectural ideas presented will provide a comprehensive understanding of how this project seeks to redefine urban living in Hong Kong.

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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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