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Elevated Living: Charred Wooden Shingles and Modified Timber in Nature-Integrated Sleep Pods

Authors:
Pedro Ferreira, Constança Saraiva, Rui Matias, Francisco Ferreira
Elevated Living: Charred Wooden Shingles and Modified Timber in Nature-Integrated Sleep Pods

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and modified timber create a visually cohesive façade that harmonizes with the surrounding environment, offering compact sleeping pods designed for immersive nature experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural stability while reducing weight.
03
Elevated construction minimizes land disruption and preserves natural vegetation.
04
Design incorporates ample natural light through strategically placed windows.
05
Greywater treatment system supports sustainable water management practices.

The Wooden Sleeping Pods project is situated in Vale de Moisés, a region known for its distinct natural landscape. The architecture aims to provide a sustainable living solution that harmonizes with the surrounding environment. The project’s primary function is to create compact, functional sleeping pods that facilitate a close connection with nature. Each pod consists of essential amenities while maximizing space efficiency and comfort.

The design employs a minimalist approach, with a focus on creating an environment that enhances user experience while integrating into the local ecosystem. The use of wood as the main construction material reflects both sustainability and aesthetic appeal, mirroring traditional local architecture. By elevating the structure on piloti, the design minimizes land disturbance and promotes natural vegetation growth underneath.

Unique Features and Design Approaches

The Wooden Sleeping Pods distinguish themselves from conventional structures through several innovative design strategies. The careful orientation of the pods optimizes natural light exposure and offers sweeping views of the landscape. This design decision not only improves energy efficiency but also enhances the overall experience of the occupants.

The exterior material selection emphasizes longevity and ecological responsibility, incorporating modified wood, marine-grade plywood, and laminated wood. The inclusion of triple-glazed PVC windows ensures thermal insulation while providing effective ventilation. These materials collectively reflect a commitment to durability and environmental stewardship.

Internally, the configuration supports flexibility through well-planned layouts that prioritize user comfort. The use of angled wood paneling on the ceilings creates an inviting atmosphere while maximizing acoustical quality. Each pod includes strategically placed openings that facilitate cross-ventilation and natural lighting, reducing reliance on artificial systems.

Sustainability Considerations

Sustainability is woven into the design fabric, demonstrating a conscious effort to reduce environmental impact. The project features systems for greywater treatment, promoting efficient water management. This aspect not only address potential water scarcity but also fosters a self-sustaining environment through the irrigation of surrounding landscaping.

The Wooden Sleeping Pods represent a thoughtful intersection of architecture and ecology. They exemplify how design can effectively respond to environmental challenges while enhancing the user experience. The meticulous attention to material selection, spatial organization, and functional adaptability sets this project apart from conventional developments.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural decisions made throughout this project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs available in the project presentation. Detailed insights into architectural ideas and their implementation within the Wooden Sleeping Pods can provide valuable knowledge for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

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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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