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Elevated Living Above Transit With Engineered Wood and Polycarbonate Integration

Authors:
Harry Mills, Simon Dellosa, Cathy Hua
Elevated Living Above Transit With Engineered Wood and Polycarbonate Integration

Project in-detail

Constructed above railway corridors, this housing initiative utilizes engineered wood and polycarbonate elements to create a flexible and affordable living environment that enhances urban connectivity and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed directly above existing railway lines, maximizing land use efficiency.
02
Incorporates polycarbonate panels for enhanced natural light and energy performance.
03
Designed with modular residential units to adapt to changing community needs.
04
Integrates public plazas to foster social interaction among residents.
05
Utilizes engineered wood for structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.

The “Enclosing Tracks” project is a housing initiative designed to integrate residential units with existing railway infrastructures in Sydney, New South Wales. This project aims to address urban density, housing affordability, and lifestyle inequalities prevalent in growing urban areas. By positioning affordable housing above railway stations, the design effectively utilizes underutilized spaces while promoting community engagement through accessible amenities.

Urban Revitalization Through Adaptive Use The project’s layout features residential units stacked above an existing transport network, creating a hybrid structure that emphasizes modular design principles. This design allows flexibility in unit types, ranging from one to three-bedroom configurations, catering to various household sizes. Each unit is designed to optimize natural light and ventilation, improving quality of life for residents. Additionally, the arrangement promotes walkability, linking neighborhoods with efficient transit options to major destinations within the city.

A notable aspect of this design is its emphasis on public plazas integrated into the overall layout. These communal spaces encourage social interaction among residents and provide areas for recreation. The proximity to transport hubs enhances connectivity and fosters an active lifestyle, minimizing reliance on personal vehicles and promoting sustainable commuting practices.

Integrating Sustainable Materials and Construction Techniques The “Enclosing Tracks” project showcases a commitment to sustainability through its careful selection of materials and construction methods. Engineered wood, polycarbonate, and concrete are the primary materials employed. Engineered wood is utilized for its structural capability while contributing to a warm aesthetic. Polycarbonate panels are incorporated for their durability and impact resistance, enhancing the building's energy performance. Concrete provides the necessary foundational support, ensuring safety and robustness.

The modularity of the design allows future adaptability, enabling the project to evolve with changing community needs. By utilizing existing transit infrastructure, the project reduces land consumption typically associated with traditional urban spreads, effectively countering urban sprawl.

Call to Action To explore the architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas that shape the “Enclosing Tracks” project, consider reviewing the detailed presentations available. This project represents a thoughtful response to contemporary urban challenges and sets a precedent for future housing developments within urban environments.

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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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