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Embracing Imperfection With Textured Concrete and Natural Wood in a Cultural Exhibition Space

Authors:
Pui Ying Wu, Gary Chan Kwok Leung, Hoi Kiu Ng
Embracing Imperfection With Textured Concrete and Natural Wood in a Cultural Exhibition Space

Project in-detail

Textured concrete surfaces and detailed wood elements merge to create a cultural exhibition space that celebrates the narrative of ruins while fostering community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Textured concrete surfaces are designed to mimic the aesthetic of historical ruins.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural support while enhancing warmth and texture.
03
The bent A-frame design facilitates natural light penetration and dynamic spatial experiences.
04
Natural stone accents integrate the building with its surrounding landscape.
05
Sustainable practices, such as rainwater harvesting, are incorporated throughout the design.

The architectural project "The Value of Ruins" explores the intersection of contemporary design and historical references, particularly inspired by ancient Roman ruins. This project integrates modern materials and construction techniques to create a space that serves multiple functions, including exhibition areas, community spaces, and cultural engagement zones. The design emphasizes interaction and connection between users while fostering an appreciation for historical architecture through modern interpretation.

Emphasizing the theme of ruins, the project utilizes concrete as a primary material, allowing for an exploration of aesthetic imperfections that characterize both contemporary and ancient structures. The combination of concrete with glass and natural materials creates a unique visual language that celebrates the both past and present.

Innovative Spatial Organization

The spatial organization within "The Value of Ruins" is carefully crafted to promote fluid circulation and user engagement. The project's layout includes a series of interconnected levels designed to facilitate movement between various spaces. The ground floor welcomes visitors with communal areas such as cafés and information hubs, setting the stage for exploration. Upper levels are composed of galleries and exhibition spaces that vary in height and form, allowing for diverse interactions with art and architecture.

The integration of ramps and open staircases encourages visitors to traverse the space, enhancing their experience through vertical movement. Natural light floods the interior, enhancing the atmosphere and creating a connection to the surrounding environment. The unique choice of non-linear geometries and open layouts distinguishes this project from typical architectural designs, allowing for a reimagined experience of space.

Material Expression and Aesthetic Choices

"The Value of Ruins" makes a deliberate statement through its material choices and aesthetic philosophy. The use of concrete is not merely functional but embodies the concept of imperfection, celebrating the inherent qualities of the material. Textured surfaces and irregular finishes reflect the beauty found in decay and age, evoking the character of historical structures.

The design incorporates glass to facilitate transparency and lightness, creating a dialogue between the building's interior and exterior. Wood is also introduced, providing warmth and contrasting with the raw concrete. Natural stone details serve to ground the project within its environmental context, enhancing the connection to the local landscape.

This approach to materials and aesthetics underlines the project's intent to honor the past while addressing contemporary architectural practices. The combination of these elements creates a series of unique spaces that invite visitors to engage creatively and intellectually.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural principles and design methodologies behind "The Value of Ruins," explore architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs available for review. Each element provides critical insight into the innovative ideas that define this project and contribute to its distinctive character.

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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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