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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Shingles Define Sustainable Urban Living Solutions

Authors:
Yi-ju Tseng, Ines Benavente molina
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Shingles Define Sustainable Urban Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, the design integrates sustainable materials to create adaptable urban living spaces that prioritize community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and thermal performance.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes interior space and aesthetics.
04
Integrates renewable energy solutions, including solar panels and wind turbines.
05
Promotes communal living through shared outdoor spaces and interconnected units.

The project under analysis is a modern architectural initiative located in Sydney, Australia, addressing the critical housing demands in urban environments. This design showcases an innovative approach to space utilization while integrating flexibility and community interaction into its framework. The architecture embodies the concept of modular living units that can adapt to the varied needs of residents while promoting sustainable practices.

Architectural Integration with Urban Landscape

This project emphasizes the importance of contextual placement by harmonizing with Sydney’s historic environment. The design features modular units that are interconnected, allowing for communal spaces while maintaining privacy for individual inhabitants. The façade incorporates a combination of materials, such as timber cladding and reinforced concrete, ensuring durability while contributing to the overall aesthetics of the urban landscape. Large windows and balconies allow natural light to penetrate while providing access to outdoor spaces, reinforcing the idea of a balanced indoor-outdoor living environment.

What makes this project distinctive is its focus on adaptability and community-centric design. The layout facilitates various living arrangements, catering to diverse demographics without compromising the architectural integrity. Additionally, the building's circulation patterns are carefully planned to encourage interaction among residents, thereby fostering a sense of community within the urban setting. Shared amenities, such as rooftop gardens and communal lounges, are integrated into the design, further promoting engagement between inhabitants.

Innovative Sustainable Practices

The project integrates sustainable practices through a careful selection of materials and systems. The use of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, ensures the building operates with minimal environmental impact. Rainwater harvesting systems are also included to provide water for irrigation and other non-potable uses. The architecture promotes energy efficiency with insulation techniques and passive design strategies, reducing reliance on artificial heating and cooling.

Unique architectural features include flexible unit configurations that allow for easy reallocation of space as family needs change. This adaptability is crucial in urban areas where space is limited, and living conditions often evolve. The building’s modular design not only addresses current housing demands but anticipates future requirements, making it a forward-thinking approach to urban residential architecture.

For deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, which provides a comprehensive overview of this contemporary housing solution. This analysis underscores the necessity for innovative architectural responses to urban challenges, highlighting the importance of flexibility and sustainability in modern 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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