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Floating Pods of Charred Wood and Glass Embracing Nature’s Serenity

Authors:
Karolis Skirtunas, Saulė Andriulytė, Evita Šupienytė, Deimilė Mikelionytė
Floating Pods of Charred Wood and Glass Embracing Nature’s Serenity

Project in-detail

Elevated above the mountainous landscape, the retreat’s floating pods combine charred wood and expansive glass to create a seamless dialogue between constructed space and nature, serving as a tranquil sanctuary for mindfulness and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating pods elevate the design, preserving the natural landscape and minimizing ground disturbance.
02
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances weather resistance while providing a distinct aesthetic.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed for structural integrity and sustainability.
04
Large glass façades optimize natural light, creating connections between interior spaces and nature.
05
A passive design approach regulates temperature and reduces energy consumption throughout the year.

The architectural project "Pendant in Time" embodies the integration of contemporary design with the natural landscape of Vale De Moses, a region characterized by its focus on wellness and mindfulness. This project consists of a series of floating pods that provide a unique retreat experience while minimizing ecological impact. The aim is to create spaces that enable occupants to engage with their surroundings, aligning the built environment with the rhythms of nature.

Innovative Structural Solutions The design utilizes floating pod structures that are elevated above the ground, maintaining the existing topography and preserving the natural habitat. This approach allows for a seamless integration of the architecture into the mountainous terrain. Large glass panels serve as primary architectural features, offering expansive views of the landscape and facilitating natural light penetration. These glass elements function not only as transparent barriers but also as active components that connect interior spaces with the exterior environment. The inclusion of a sloped design adapts well to site conditions, reducing the need for extensive land alteration.

Sustainable Material Choices Material selection is central to the project’s identity. Pine wood is utilized for structural and finish applications, providing aesthetic warmth while promoting sustainability through locally sourced materials. The architectural design incorporates advanced technologies including a waterproof membrane for roofing and a rainwater collection system to enhance environmental stewardship. Wind protection insulation further contributes to energy efficiency, ensuring a comfortable interior throughout varying weather conditions.

Unique Features and Systems The project distinguishes itself through several unique features. The mechanical sun louvers, formed by vertically oriented wooden slats, allow occupants to manage light and privacy dynamically, optimizing the interior conditions based on user preference and environmental factors. Additionally, the retreat integrates wellness-oriented spaces that encourage relaxation and reflection, making use of the surrounding vistas as part of the experience. The architectural layouts are thoughtfully planned to provide quiet corners and communal areas to foster connection among occupants while respecting individual privacy.

For a more detailed understanding of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that contribute to the distinctive character of "Pendant in Time." This exploration can provide further insights into the architectural ideas that shaped the project’s overall concept and implementation.

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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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