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Dynamic Light Play Through Adjustable Thatch Roof Over Circular Community Spaces

Author:
Daiki Toyama
Dynamic Light Play Through Adjustable Thatch Roof Over Circular Community Spaces

Project in-detail

The interplay of dynamic light through an adjustable thatch roof complements the circular layout of communal spaces, making it a functional residence that emphasizes connection with nature and adaptability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Adjustable thatch roof elements allow for customized light penetration and ventilation.
02
Circular layout promotes communal interaction while maintaining private spaces.
03
Local stone and wood materials enhance the building's integration within the landscape.
04
Dynamic light play creates varying interior atmospheres throughout the day.
05
Interior courtyard fosters an outdoor living experience in a compact footprint.

The "Shadow Hat" project presents a comprehensive architectural design that prioritizes sustainability and integration with the environment. This structure embodies a circular form, which promotes community interaction while ensuring personal privacy. The design showcases a harmonious blending of traditional and modern elements, creating a space that is functional and reflective of its natural surroundings.

The primary function of the "Shadow Hat" is to provide a versatile living space that encourages a connection to the outdoors. The layout incorporates open communal areas alongside private rooms, facilitating both social gatherings and individual relaxation. Large openings afford abundant natural light and panoramic views, fostering an immersive experience of the landscape. The strategic arrangement of spaces is designed to enhance the livability of the home, ensuring residents experience a seamless flow from indoors to outdoors.

The unique aspects of the "Shadow Hat" project lie in its innovative approach to light and materiality. The incorporation of a central skylight allows for dynamic natural light conditions throughout the day, creating a changing atmosphere in the interior spaces. This design consideration is coupled with the use of local stone and wood, ensuring that the materials selected not only serve practical purposes but also resonate with the local context. The roof features adjustable elements that manipulate sunlight and shadow, a distinctive design approach that differentiates this project from typical residential designs.

Furthermore, the architectural plans include a carefully considered arrangement of spaces that allows for flexible use depending on the time of day or the season. This adaptability is essential in maximizing the functionality of the home, as different areas can be utilized for various activities such as dining, relaxation, or socializing. The design minimizes the reliance on artificial lighting, further establishing a connection with the surrounding environment and promoting energy efficiency.

In exploring the architectural sections and designs, one can gain a deeper understanding of the spatial relationships and material choices inherent to this project. Each detail has been meticulously crafted to enhance the overall user experience and ensure environmental considerations are prioritized.

For further insights into the "Shadow Hat" architectural project, viewers are encouraged to examine the accompanying presentation materials that detail the architectural plans, sections, and design ideologies. By doing so, one can appreciate the thoughtful execution of architectural ideas that contribute to the project's distinct character and functionality.

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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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