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Elevated Living With Translucent Polycarbonate and Adaptive Membrane Systems

Author:
Margaret Fitzpatrick
Elevated Living With Translucent Polycarbonate and Adaptive Membrane Systems

Project in-detail

With a focus on elevated modular units crafted from translucent polycarbonate and an adaptable membrane system, this residential structure seamlessly integrates natural ventilation and light, creating a flexible living space that fosters community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure allows for unobstructed views and enhanced airflow.
02
Translucent polycarbonate panels provide natural light while ensuring thermal efficiency.
03
Adaptive membrane systems enable flexible space configurations based on user needs.
04
Integrated communal areas encourage social interaction within a private living environment.
05
Design promotes passive cooling and natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical systems.

The Breath House is an architectural project that focuses on the interplay between human habitation and environmental sustainability. Designed as a modular living space, it emphasizes the importance of airflow and natural light, creating comfortable and adaptable environments. This project highlights the integration of architecture with nature, addressing both personal and communal living needs through innovative design.

The design leverages modular structures elevated on slender steel frames, allowing for unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape while enhancing ventilation. Each unit features a unique system of membranes that can be adjusted to regulate light and airflow, a response to changing weather conditions. This flexibility marks a departure from traditional housing designs, promoting a user-driven approach to living spaces.

Innovative Ventilation and Adaptability

A central feature of the Breath House is its natural ventilation system, which employs passive airflow strategies to maintain indoor comfort. The units are equipped with strategically placed openings that facilitate airflow, reducing the dependency on mechanical systems. The flexible membrane structure allows residents to open or close the space as needed, fostering a dynamic interaction with the environment. This adaptability is particularly relevant in regions with variable climates, showcasing a practical and responsive design solution.

Connection to the Environment

The integration of the Breath House into its natural setting underscores its commitment to sustainability. Transparent and lightweight materials such as tinted polycarbonate panels are used for exterior surfaces, allowing for abundant natural light while providing thermal insulation. The surrounding landscape is proportionally prioritized, encouraging outdoor living and interaction with nature. Moreover, each unit’s design promotes both privacy and communal spaces, reflecting a balance not commonly found in typical residential developments.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of the architectural principles and design strategies employed in the Breath House, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will further illuminate its innovative approach. This project stands as a practical example of contemporary architecture that aligns with modern sustainability needs and lifestyle preferences.

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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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