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Flexibly Adaptable Spaces With Coral Stone and Natural Wood in a Desert Landscape

Author:
Riya Ann Thomas Thomas Kuzhuvommannil Mathew
Flexibly Adaptable Spaces With Coral Stone and Natural Wood in a Desert Landscape

Project in-detail

Utilizing coral stone and natural wood, the design creates a series of flexible living spaces that harmonize with the desert landscape, catering to modern family dynamics.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced coral stone to reflect traditional Emirati building practices.
02
Features brise soleil elements that enhance energy efficiency and reduce heat gain.
03
Incorporates natural wood finishes for interior spaces, creating a warm atmosphere.
04
Designed with flexible layouts to easily adapt to various family activities and uses.
05
Integrates native landscaping to connect the home with its desert environment.

The "House of the Future: Desert Elegance" represents a significant architectural achievement that integrates modern design with the cultural heritage of Al Ain, UAE. This project provides a residential environment intended for contemporary living while reflecting the historical context and climatic challenges of the region. The architectural design prioritizes flexibility, adaptability, and sustainability, aiming to enhance the quality of life for its inhabitants.

Spatially, the project is organized into defined zones, allowing for a seamless flow between private, semi-private, and service areas. Each space is strategically designed to fulfill specific functions while maintaining a cohesive connection to the surrounding landscape. The incorporation of massing elements creates dynamic volumes that not only serve aesthetic purposes but also optimize natural light and ventilation throughout the home.

Innovative Material Usage Enhancing Heritage and Sustainability A key aspect that distinguishes this project is its thoughtful use of materials. The primary exterior material, coral stone, connects the structure to traditional Emirati building practices, promoting a sense of place. Complementing this is the use of brise soleil, which reduces heat gain and enhances energy efficiency. The incorporation of lightweight aluminum and natural wood for cladding harmonizes modern architectural trends with the principles of sustainability. Internally, porcelain tiles are used for flooring, providing durability and an aesthetic alignment with the overall design language.

The integration of local flora in landscaped areas establishes a strong relationship between the house and its desert surroundings. This is a unique feature that emphasizes environmental consciousness, allowing for a blend of indoor and outdoor living experiences.

Flexible Space Configurations for Modern Living The interior layout reflects an adaptable approach to design, offering flexible configurations for different activities. The spaces can easily transition from formal dining settings to informal gathering areas, catering to the diverse needs of contemporary families. This versatility is achieved through movable partitions and open plan principles, maximizing the usability of each area while ensuring privacy when required. Such design solutions facilitate a lifestyle that is both modern and reflective of traditional values.

Attention to detail is evident throughout the project, from the use of calligraphic patterns that echo local artistry to the open glass facades that draw natural light inside, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Communications between interiors and exteriors are intentionally designed to enhance the user experience, fostering a connection with the natural environment.

The "House of the Future: Desert Elegance" exemplifies a unique architectural approach that combines cultural appreciation with modern living requirements. For those interested in exploring the finer details of the project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and innovative architectural ideas, further information is available. Engaging with these elements will provide deeper insights into the design's significance and its function within the landscape of Al Ain.

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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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