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Curved Concrete Roof and Water Collection System Enhancing Sustainable Living in a Desert Climate

Author:
Ulysse Michel Jean-claude Geroux
Curved Concrete Roof and Water Collection System Enhancing Sustainable Living in a Desert Climate

Project in-detail

Incorporating a curved concrete roof and an integrated water collection system, this residential design maximizes resource efficiency while providing a functional, family-oriented living space in Dubai's arid environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built with a bent A-frame design, enhancing structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates an innovative roof water collection system for sustainable resource management.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels to improve thermal performance and reduce energy use.
04
Utilizes charred wooden shingles, providing natural fire resistance and visual texture.
05
Designed to optimize indoor-outdoor connectivity, enhancing natural light and ventilation.

House No. 11-1968 is a residential architecture project located in Dubai, designed to integrate modern living with environmental considerations. This project represents a refined connection between users and their surroundings, guided by a narrative that reflects both historical roots and contemporary lifestyles. The architectural design encapsulates sustainable practices while enriching the daily lives of its residents.

The overall function of House No. 11-1968 is to serve as a comfortable and efficient living space, accommodating the diverse needs of a family while promoting interaction with the natural environment. The layout organizes private and communal areas effectively, prioritizing natural light and ventilation. Key components of the design include expansive living areas, strategically placed windows, and an outdoor patio that extends the living space and encourages outdoor activities.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the project. Concrete forms the primary structure, providing durability in Dubai's climate. Cladded wood panels are employed not only for insulation but also to create visual warmth, contrasting the starkness of concrete. The incorporation of a roof-based water collection system exemplifies a commitment to sustainability, allowing for resource efficiency and environmental stewardship.

Design Adaptations One of the notable aspects of House No. 11-1968 is its responsiveness to climatic conditions. The design utilizes passive cooling techniques, including airflow through strategically placed openings and thermal mass provided by concrete walls. The angles of the roof facilitate the collection of moisture, enhancing natural cooling during hot nights. This unique approach minimizes dependence on traditional air conditioning, demonstrating an effective integration of architectural design with environmental strategy.

The spatial organization within the project is another defining feature. The ground floor houses the main living spaces, emphasizing openness and connectivity between the indoor and outdoor environments. The patio acts as a central gathering point, blurring the lines between inside and outside. On the upper floor, private bedrooms are situated to maximize privacy while providing expansive views of the surrounding landscape.

Responsive Design Strategies Additionally, the project embraces local cultural elements, meeting the need for modern architectural expression while respecting its historical context. The designed landscapes incorporate native plants, reducing irrigation demands and enhancing local biodiversity. This practice reflects a broader commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness.

To gain a deeper understanding of House No. 11-1968, consider exploring the architectural plans, sections, and detailed design elements that showcase the unique aspects of this project. Engaging with these components provides valuable insights into the approach taken in its design and the architectural ideas that shaped its development.

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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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