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Exploring Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber in a Community-Focused Workspace

Authors:
Morong Lin, Siyu Wang
Exploring Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber in a Community-Focused Workspace

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design creates an inviting workspace that fosters community interaction while reflecting local craftsmanship.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and weather resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural stability and reduce weight.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space and natural light.
04
Integrates indoor gardens to promote biodiversity and improve air quality.
05
Emphasizes local craftsmanship, reflecting traditional woodworking techniques in the facade.

The architectural project is a modern office building located in Dongguan, China, designed to merge traditional woodworking techniques with contemporary workspace needs. The structure exemplifies a thoughtful integration of art, culture, and functionality, reflecting the local heritage while meeting modern demands for workplace environments. The design encourages interaction and creativity, positioned against the backdrop of a bustling urban landscape, thereby contributing to community engagement and collaboration.

The building's facade features a sculptural approach, presenting a continuous wood-carving concept that speaks to the region's rich crafting history. It serves not only as an artistic element but also plays a functional role, providing shade and thermal comfort for the occupants. The spatial organization within the building is intended to facilitate a blend of individual and collaborative work, supporting a range of activities in a seamless manner.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the distinctive features of this project is its extensive use of locally sourced materials, primarily Chinese wood. This choice emphasizes sustainable practices and reinforces the connection between the structure and its geographical context. The facade acts as a canvas for creativity, inviting users to engage with the building in a multi-dimensional way, which is atypical in many office layouts.

The design includes elements such as spiral pathways that link different levels of the building, encouraging movement and interaction among users. This thoughtful configuration allows for both open workstations and private office spaces, catering to diverse working styles. Additionally, the integration of indoor and outdoor green spaces promotes well-being and biodiversity, enhancing the workspace environment.

Architectural Details and Functionality

The project does not merely aim to create an office; it aspires to be a social hub within the community. Common areas are deliberately designed to foster informal networking and collaboration, with spaces that encourage gatherings and discussions. The approach to spatial design reflects a modern understanding of workplace dynamics, prioritizing flexibility and user experience.

Architectural plans illustrate the careful consideration of light and circulation within the building. Large glass facades enable natural light to penetrate deep into the interior, reducing the need for artificial lighting and enhancing the overall ambiance. Structural considerations with a combination of concrete and steel elements ensure durability while permitting the intricate wooden carvings to take center stage.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of this architectural project, explore the architectural plans and sections that detail the innovative design ideas and functionality integrated within this unique workspace. Review the architectural designs highlighted throughout the project presentation for a deeper insight into how this building redefines the modern office experience.

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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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