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 Structure Enhanced by Gold-Lattice Accents and Sustainable Concrete Elements

Authors:
Maria Inmaculada Concepcion Fernandez Callejas, Jose Francisco Castillo Estevez
Curvilinear Structure Enhanced by Gold-Lattice Accents and Sustainable Concrete Elements

Project in-detail

Gold-lattice accents complement the curvilinear form and precast concrete structure, transforming the residence into a functional embodiment of hospitality and cultural identity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates gold-lattice accents inspired by traditional Arabic design.
02
Utilizes precast concrete for efficient and sustainable construction.
03
Features extensive use of photovoltaic glass for energy efficiency.
04
Focuses on a fluid, curvilinear form to enhance social interaction.
05
Incorporates native landscaping to promote local biodiversity.

The Tea is an architectural design project located in Dubai, UAE, that merges traditional cultural motifs with contemporary design principles. This residential structure draws inspiration from the essential form of a teapot, symbolizing hospitality, warmth, and social interaction. The design accommodates both family living and gatherings, emphasizing communal spaces while ensuring privacy in living quarters. It reflects a balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal, aimed at promoting a seamless indoor-outdoor lifestyle.

Innovative Design Approach

The primary architectural form of The Tea is characterized by its fluid, organic shapes, which set it apart from conventional residential designs. The building's structure features circular elements and curved lines, enhancing visual continuity and creating a welcoming atmosphere. One of the project’s most notable aspects is the incorporation of precast concrete, which optimizes construction efficiency while offering durability. This choice in materials not only supports the building’s form but also aligns with sustainable building practices.

Large expanses of photovoltaic and transparent glass are strategically incorporated to maximize natural light while minimizing energy consumption. The use of glass ensures unobstructed views of the surroundings, connecting the occupants with the external environment. Additionally, the golden lattice accents pay homage to traditional Arabic aesthetics, harmonizing modern design with cultural heritage.

Functional Layout and Space Utilization

The Tea is designed with a clear distinction between public and private spaces. The ground floor acts as the primary social hub, featuring an open-concept layout that houses the living area, dining space, and kitchen. This design fosters interaction among residents and guests, embodying the spirit of hospitality central to the project's ethos.

The first floor is dedicated to private living quarters, including a master bedroom and additional bedrooms, each designed with en-suite bathrooms. An office space further enhances the functionality of the layout, providing a designated area for work away from common areas.

In line with modern sustainability goals, the landscaping surrounding the building integrates native flora and greenery, enhancing biodiversity. The design incorporates features for efficient water management and utilization, aligning with the goals of environmental stewardship. The open concept washrooms challenge traditional layouts, providing a fresh and innovative approach to residential design.

The Tea exemplifies how modern architecture can reflect cultural values while employing contemporary strategies. Its unique structural form, integrated sustainable technologies, and emphasis on social spaces position it as a noteworthy example in residential design.

To gain deeper insights into The Tea, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and further architectural designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for comprehensive details on its innovative ideas and execution.

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