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Elevated Living Spaces with Cork Insulation and Modular Timber Construction

Authors:
Nicholas Niemen, Olle Björkebaum
Elevated Living Spaces with Cork Insulation and Modular Timber Construction

Project in-detail

Utilizing modular timber construction elevated on stilts and enhanced with cork insulation, the design creates sustainable community housing that harmonizes with the surrounding wetland environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cork insulation for improved energy efficiency and sustainability.
02
Incorporates a stilted design to enhance drainage and protect against flooding.
03
Features large windows to maximize natural light and views of the wetland.
04
Modular construction allows for flexibility in housing layouts and configurations.
05
Promotes community interaction through integrated public gathering spaces.

The Strå project is an innovative architectural development located in the suburban landscape of Stockholm, specifically addressing the unique ecological and social challenges present in areas such as Rågsved and Tensta. This project emphasizes sustainable living while maintaining a strong connection with the natural environment. Comprising a series of modular housing units, the design aims to foster a sense of community and enhance the quality of life for its residents within a vulnerable urban setting.

Sustainable Design Intentions The core of the Strå project lies in its commitment to sustainability. The architectural design integrates the natural landscape by utilizing a wood frame structure elevated on stilts. This technique not only allows for effective drainage and reduces the ecological footprint on the surrounding wetlands but also provides a scenic view of the water. Furthermore, the incorporation of cork insulation alongside wooden decking contributes to both energy efficiency and the aesthetic coherence of the project. These material choices reflect an approach that prioritizes sustainability without compromising design integrity.

Modular and Adaptive Housing Solutions A distinctive aspect of the Strå project is the implementation of modular housing units. Each unit is designed for functionality and flexibility, allowing for various configurations that can accommodate different household sizes. The layout of the interiors is efficient, optimizing space for essential living functions—including kitchens, sleeping areas, and bathrooms—while ensuring natural light penetrates deep into the living spaces through thoughtfully placed large windows. This design approach promotes a healthy indoor environment with visual connections to the outdoors.

Community-Centric Approach The Strå project emphasizes community interaction as a foundational element of its design. The layout encourages social gatherings among residents, forging relationships that enhance a sense of belonging. Public spaces within the development serve as community hubs, allowing for engagement among inhabitants and fostering a collaborative atmosphere. The phased development strategy also permits gradual integration into the existing community, minimizing disruptions while promoting sustainability.

For those interested in exploring the architectural implications of the Strå project further, detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs are available to review. By examining these elements, one can gain a deeper understanding of the innovative approaches that define this project and the potential impacts on future architectural practices.

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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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