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Compressed Earth Structures Integrated With Central Courtyards and Sustainable Materials

Author:
Michel Grimard
Compressed Earth Structures Integrated With Central Courtyards and Sustainable Materials

Project in-detail

Utilizing compressed earth as a primary structural element, this housing scheme integrates flexible living spaces with communal courtyards to create a sustainable community environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes compressed earth as a primary structural material to enhance sustainability.
02
Integrates a central courtyard to foster community interaction among residents.
03
Features a flexible layout that adapts to various topographies and environments.
04
Incorporates rainwater collection systems for efficient resource management.
05
Employs low-carbon concrete and eco-friendly finishes to minimize environmental impact.

This architectural project showcases a thoughtfully designed housing scheme that emphasizes sustainable living and community integration. The arrangement features clusters of 18 semi-detached houses, strategically organized to foster social interaction while ensuring individual privacy. Each dwelling is adaptable to various geographical contexts, emphasizing a connection to both land and sea environments.

The project's design serves multiple functions, combining residential spaces with community-focused areas to create a vibrant living environment. Central to the layout is a shared community space, enhancing interactions among residents and promoting a sense of belonging. The project aims to redefine modern housing by balancing private and communal zones.

Integrating the concept of adaptability, this project ensures that the houses can be modified based on the local topography. Ground floors contain practical elements such as garages and storage, while open-plan living areas encourage flexibility in use. Bedrooms are strategically located to maintain a tranquil atmosphere. The vertical circulation features a central staircase and optional vacuum lift, addressing mobility needs across varying demographics.

Sustainable design elements differentiate this project from similar housing developments. The use of compressed earth, low-carbon concrete, wood, aluminum, and glass aligns with modern sustainability practices. These materials not only contribute to the structural integrity of the homes but also reflect environmental responsibility by minimizing the ecological footprint.

Unique to this design is its focus on community-oriented layouts and eco-friendly technologies. The circular arrangement of homes promotes interaction, while solar panels and rainwater collection systems underscore a commitment to renewable energy and resource conservation. The visual language of the houses combines modern architectural aesthetics with organic forms, creating a seamless integration with the surrounding landscape.

For those interested in exploring the architectural details further, it is recommended to review the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs. These elements provide deeper insights into the innovative approaches employed in this project, highlighting the architectural ideas that contribute to its overall effectiveness in addressing contemporary living challenges.

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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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