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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Rainwater Integration in Compact Urban Living

Authors:
Alexander Herrera-rojas, Katarzyna ZiÓŁkowska, Rafael Andres Dominguez Alarcon
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Rainwater Integration in Compact Urban Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating cross-laminated timber panels and a rainwater harvesting system, the design creates an efficient and sustainable living environment within a compact urban footprint.
5 key facts about this project
01
Materials include charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Rainwater harvesting systems integrated for sustainable water management.
03
A compact design utilizes vertical living spaces to maximize usability.
04
Interconnected voids promote natural ventilation and daylight throughout.
05
Community-oriented layout encourages social interaction among residents.

### Overview
The MicroHIVE design initiative is situated within a contemporary urban context, addressing the need for sustainable living solutions that harmonize with natural environments. The intent is to create housing that meets the demands of modern residents, including individuals and couples, while minimizing ecological footprints. This residential model aims to foster a sense of community and promote an eco-conscious lifestyle through an innovative framework of design and functionality.

### Spatial Configuration
The architectural layout employs a vertical strategy to maximize land use and interaction with the surrounding landscape. The ground floor encompasses essential utility areas such as storage, dining, a kitchen, and hygiene facilities, establishing a functional base. The first floor serves as a social hub, blending living and working spaces that facilitate collaboration among residents. The second floor is dedicated to private sleeping quarters, ensuring comfort and tranquility. Additionally, the incorporation of voids and interconnected staircases not only enhances ventilation but also fosters visual connectivity, thereby promoting engagement between different levels.

### Material Strategy
The design emphasizes sustainability through a predominant use of timber, including timber cladding for the exterior and wall framing to optimize energy performance. Thermal efficiency is further enhanced with Kingspan insulation products, while interior surfaces are finished with plaster for aesthetic appeal. Double-glazed windows increase natural light and insulation, and solar tiles contribute to renewable energy generation. The use of lightweight metal mesh for balconies facilitates airflow while preserving visual openness, reinforcing the project’s commitment to both material efficiency and aesthetic coherence.

### Sustainable Features
Key sustainable systems incorporated into the MicroHIVE design include a solar energy battery for efficient energy storage and a rainwater harvesting system that supports domestic use and gardening. These features not only reduce reliance on non-renewable resources but also promote a connection to the environment through agricultural practices. The potential for communal living is also explored, with shared spaces designed to encourage social interactions among residents, thereby fostering a cohesive neighborhood atmosphere.

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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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