Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Curvilinear Forms and Natural Stone Create a Harmonious Living Space on Elevated Topography

Author:
Pedro Manuel Lucas Freire
Curvilinear Forms and Natural Stone Create a Harmonious Living Space on Elevated Topography

Project in-detail

Curvilinear forms crafted from natural stone and terracotta establish a cohesive connection with the elevated landscape, providing a modern residence designed for communal living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear forms promote natural light and fluid movement throughout the interior spaces.
02
Integration of terracotta tiles mirrors local geological characteristics, enhancing the site's connection.
03
Dedicated pet areas are thoughtfully designed to accommodate animal-friendly living.
04
Basement garage access is achieved through a curved entrance, blending functionality with aesthetics.
05
Natural stone cladding enhances durability while complementing the surrounding landscape.

Villa Vau is an innovative architectural project that exemplifies the integration of contemporary design principles with the natural environment. The residence is strategically positioned on raised topography, allowing it to engage harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. The vision behind Villa Vau focuses on creating a living space that supports a sense of community while respecting the site's ecological context.

The design incorporates a circular form that promotes fluidity and connection within the interior. This spatial organization facilitates open transitions between living, dining, and kitchen areas, enabling interaction among occupants. The extensive use of glass enhances visibility and natural lighting, further establishing a cohesive relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Unique Architectural Features One of the key aspects distinguishing Villa Vau from traditional residential projects is its emphasis on organic forms and materials. The exterior walls are clad in natural stone, offering durability while providing a textural quality that merges the structure with its environment. Terracotta tiles complement this finish and add warmth to both the facade and interior flooring.

The design uniquely caters to specific resident needs, such as provisions for pet-friendly spaces. This consideration reflects a tailored approach, emphasizing functionality alongside aesthetic appeal. Additionally, the incorporation of wood accents in shelving and furniture contributes to an inviting atmosphere while maintaining a connection with nature.

Functional Layout and Integration The functional layout of Villa Vau is strategically designed to enhance the residents' daily activities. The seamless flow from public to private areas and the careful placement of large windows foster an environment that encourages both privacy and social interaction. A curved entrance leads visitors into a basement garage, merging practicality with design elegance.

The spatial arrangement is further enriched by the use of textured plaster finishes and smooth surface areas, which provide visual diversity throughout the interiors. Villa Vau enhances the user experience through the careful layering of materials and thoughtful design details, promoting an engaging living environment.

Explore the project presentation for more insights into Villa Vau's architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas to deepen your understanding of its unique approach.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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.

`

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

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy