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CorTen Steel and Green Roofs Forming Dynamic Urban Spaces

Author:
Sebastian Narvaez
CorTen Steel and Green Roofs Forming Dynamic Urban Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing CorTen steel and green roofs, the design creates dynamic urban spaces that prioritize sustainability and community interaction, serving as a versatile public area.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes CorTen steel for durability and aesthetic evolution over time.
02
Incorporates green roofs to enhance biodiversity and energy efficiency.
03
Designed with angular forms to promote natural movement and exploration.
04
Features extensive use of glass to foster visual connectivity with the surroundings.
05
Employs permeable paving to manage stormwater and reduce urban heat.

The architectural project in focus is a contemporary urban design that emphasizes community interaction and ecological sustainability. It is characterized by a thoughtful arrangement of spaces that facilitates various functions while integrating seamlessly into its environment. The project showcases a blend of modern materials and design principles that aim to redefine urban public areas, encouraging user engagement and connection with nature.

Design Philosophy and Unique Approaches

One defining aspect of this project is its innovative use of materials such as CorTen steel, concrete, glass, and porous paving stones. CorTen steel offers durability and an aesthetic that evolves over time, while concrete provides stability and a modern, industrial appeal. The incorporation of glass enhances transparency, allowing natural light to permeate the space and create visual connections between indoor and outdoor environments. This consideration for the sensory experience is a significant differentiator from conventional projects that may rely solely on traditional materials.

The layout is designed with an organic flow, incorporating angular forms that promote both movement and exploration. Pathways are strategically positioned to guide users through the space, creating opportunities for interaction and communal activities. This spatial arrangement emphasizes flexibility, accommodating various uses ranging from social gatherings to recreational activities.

Sustainability and Green Integration

The architectural design prioritizes sustainability in several ways. Green roofs integrated into the structure encourage biodiversity and contribute to thermal regulation, reducing energy consumption. These green elements not only enhance the aesthetic but also serve functional purposes such as insulation and stormwater management. The use of permeable surfaces allows for effective rainwater drainage, minimizing the heat island effect often associated with urban development.

Overall, this project serves as a model for future urban designs. It redefines the relationship between architecture and the environment, showcasing how thoughtful design can contribute to ecological health while improving community spaces.

For a more detailed understanding of the project's intricacies, including architectural plans and sections, consider exploring the presentation further. This exploration will provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that shape this innovative design.

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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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