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 Vertical Gardens Transform Community Space in Urban Setting

Author:
Alexis Nicolas Lusso
Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens Transform Community Space in Urban Setting

Project in-detail

Combining charred wooden shingles with vertical gardens, the design enhances urban biodiversity while providing a multifunctional community space that fosters social interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and weather resistance while offering a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to the building's lightweight structure and natural insulation properties.
03
Vertical gardens are integrated into the design, promoting local biodiversity and improving air quality.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light penetration and creates dynamic interior spaces.
05
Community spaces are strategically placed to foster interaction and engagement among users.

The project under analysis focuses on a contemporary architectural design located in a distinctive urban environment. This structure aims to redefine spatial use while maintaining a strong connection with its surroundings. The architectural design prioritizes functionality, sustainability, and user experience, integrating modern aesthetics with practical demands.

The building serves multiple functions, catering to both private and public needs. It includes spaces for commerce, community interaction, and leisure, demonstrating a versatile approach to urban architecture. The layout of the project emphasizes accessibility and flow, ensuring that users can navigate effortlessly between different zones. Natural light permeates the interior, enhancing the overall atmosphere and reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

Unique Aspects of the Design Approach

One notable aspect of this project is its integration of green spaces within the urban fabric. Vertical gardens and landscaped terraces are strategically placed to create a balance between built and natural environments. This integration not only contributes to the aesthetic value of the project but also promotes environmental benefits such as improved air quality and biodiversity.

The material selection is another distinguishing feature. A combination of concrete, glass, and steel is utilized, allowing for a dynamic interplay of textures and transparency. The facade employs a modular design that responds to the climatic conditions of the region, optimizing thermal performance while maintaining a modern appearance. This thoughtful choice of materials highlights the project's commitment to sustainability while ensuring durability and low-maintenance needs.

Architectural Elements and Functionality

The design incorporates a series of multipurpose spaces that address the needs of various users. Open-plan areas serve as flexible gathering spots, encouraging community interaction. Conversely, sound-proof individual rooms are included to accommodate private meetings and focused work. The architectural specifics, such as high ceilings and large windows, enhance spatial perception and provide acoustic comfort.

Attention to detail extends to technological integration, with smart building systems facilitating energy efficiency and user convenience. These systems manage lighting, heating, and security, aligning with contemporary expectations of smart architecture.

In summary, this architectural project stands out due to its innovative design strategies, commitment to sustainability, and thoughtful approach to user experience. The carefully considered blend of functionality and aesthetics reflects current trends in architectural practice. For those interested in a deeper understanding of the project, it is advisable to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural ideas that shaped its development. Doing so will provide valuable insights into the design process and outcomes of this project.

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