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Cylindrical Limestone Structures With Emphasis on Natural Ventilation and Community Engagement

Author:
Kate Pupreva
Cylindrical Limestone Structures With Emphasis on Natural Ventilation and Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Cylindrical structures of limestone integrate local craftsmanship and natural ventilation systems to create a functional space for olive oil production and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cylindrical buildings reflect traditional olive oil mill design while ensuring modern functionality.
02
A dual-layer wall system promotes passive ventilation, optimizing energy efficiency.
03
Local materials, including limestone and clay bricks, enhance environmental integration.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems support sustainable irrigation practices for the surrounding landscape.
05
The layout prioritizes communal spaces, fostering engagement and connection among visitors.

This architectural project focuses on the design of an olive oil production facility, situated in a region known for its rich agricultural heritage. The facility serves multiple functions, including production, education, and community gathering, while emphasizing sustainability and local context. The design embodies a commitment to environmental responsibility through the selection of materials and incorporation of traditional techniques, creating a harmonious dialogue between the built environment and the landscape.

The facility is organized into distinct zones that accommodate the various activities associated with olive oil production. These zones include guest accommodations for visitors, communal dining areas for tasting sessions, and educational spaces that explore olive oil’s cultural significance and production methods. The layout allows for seamless movement between spaces and encourages interaction among guests, enhancing the overall experience.

One of the unique aspects of this project is its architectural form. The design features two cylindrical buildings reminiscent of traditional olive oil mills, symbolizing the historical roots of the craft while integrating modern functionality. This choice of form fosters a sense of continuity with the landscape and reflects the fluid nature of olive oil itself. Extensive use of natural materials, such as travertine, limestone, clay bricks, and wood, further grounds the project in its geographical and cultural context, adopting a "zero-kilometer" approach to material sourcing.

The project implements advanced passive design strategies, including natural ventilation through a dual-layer wall system that enhances air circulation without mechanical intervention. This design solution contributes to thermal comfort and energy efficiency. Additionally, the integration of solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system reinforces the facility's commitment to sustainability, minimizing its ecological footprint.

The exterior spaces play a crucial role in the overall design, featuring terraces and gardens that foster connections with nature and promote outdoor activities. The incorporation of native vegetation enhances biodiversity while reducing water usage, aligning with sustainable landscaping practices.

Overall, this olive oil production facility successfully marries functionality with a strong architectural narrative. Its design honors tradition while embracing modern sustainability principles. Visitors are encouraged to explore further details of the project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas, to gain a fuller understanding of the design and its implementation.

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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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