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Floating Community Spaces Constructed from Fiber-Reinforced Concrete and Geometric Patterns

Authors:
Wang Seunghyun, Rho Heejun, Yeji Kang, Gisu Ha
Floating Community Spaces Constructed from Fiber-Reinforced Concrete and Geometric Patterns

Project in-detail

Constructed with fiber-reinforced concrete and intricately patterned geometries, this floating community integrates sustainability and resilience into its design, providing adaptable living solutions in a coastal environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using fiber-reinforced concrete, enhancing structural stability and resilience.
02
Features modular units designed for easy reconfiguration based on resident needs.
03
Incorporates geometric patterns inspired by Islamic architecture, blending tradition with modernity.
04
Integrates renewable energy systems, including solar panels and wind towers for sustainability.
05
Designed to adapt to rising sea levels, promoting a viable solution for coastal living.

The "Tessella" project presents a forward-thinking architectural response to the pressing challenges of urban living in a coastal environment. Situated in Dubai, this architectural design integrates traditional Islamic motifs with contemporary modularity, ultimately proposing a floating community model suited to climate fluctuations and rising sea levels. The design facilitates multifunctional residential and communal spaces while adhering to sustainability principles inherent in modern architecture.

Modular Configuration and Geometry

A defining characteristic of the "Tessella" project is its use of geometric tessellation, which combines various shapes—including decagons, hexagons, and rhombuses—into a coherent modular system. Each unit is designed to fit together seamlessly, allowing for diverse configurations. This modular approach enhances flexibility, enabling the design to adapt to changing needs and family structures. By prioritizing interconnectivity, the project fosters community while addressing individual privacy.

In addition to its functional aspects, the geometric patterns serve an aesthetic role, reflecting cultural narratives drawn from Islamic architecture. The impact of these motifs on the overall visual identity of the project distinguishes it in the realm of contemporary housing solutions. Furthermore, this approach provides structural efficiency, balancing visual complexity with engineering needs.

Resilient Floating Architecture

The architecture of "Tessella" is designed with resilience in mind. The units are built upon a system of pontoons that allow them to float above rising sea levels, which is particularly relevant for a coastal city like Dubai. This floating design not only mitigates the risk associated with flooding but also promotes a harmonious relationship with the surrounding aquatic environment.

Materials play a vital role in enhancing the durability and aesthetic quality of the project. The use of fiber-reinforced concrete for the pontoon base ensures strength and stability, while glass panels allow for natural light penetration and views of the water. Aluminum framing contributes to structural integrity, creating a lightweight yet robust system. Wooden decking enhances outdoor living areas, promoting usability and comfort.

The incorporation of renewable energy solutions, such as solar panels and wind towers, further underlines the project's commitment to sustainability. These elements collectively enhance the microclimate around each unit, creating a more comfortable living environment and reducing dependence on traditional energy sources.

This architectural design signifies a shift towards more adaptive and environmentally conscious urban solutions, presenting a compelling case for rethinking how community living can evolve in response to modern challenges.

For a comprehensive exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and designs that detail this innovative project, readers are encouraged to review the complete project presentation. This will provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that define "Tessella" and its unique contributions to the field of architecture.

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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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