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Floating Structure Elevated on Pylons with Polycarbonate Walls for Resilient Community Living

Authors:
Bernard Tang Wei Kiet, Ow kar yong , Tan Wei Xiang , Sim Guan Ang
Floating Structure Elevated on Pylons with Polycarbonate Walls for Resilient Community Living

Project in-detail

Elevated on a floating pontoon foundation and constructed with polycarbonate panels for optimal light and water resistance, this design addresses flooding challenges while fostering a sustainable community living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure utilizes a floating pontoon foundation to enhance flood resilience.
02
Polycarbonate panels integrated for maximum natural light and minimal environmental impact.
03
Flexible interior spaces are designed for adaptability to changing community needs.
04
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for self-sufficient water management.
05
Features a modular design approach to streamline construction and reduce waste.

The "Wuthering Wave" project is an architectural design initiative located in Hulu Langat, Malaysia. This project addresses the urgent need for resilient housing solutions in a region prone to flooding during the monsoon season. The design is focused on sustainability, functionality, and community engagement, resulting in a structure that serves as both a safe living space and a responsive architectural model that adapts to its environment.

The primary function of the "Wuthering Wave" is to provide safe, elevated dwellings capable of withstanding potential flooding. The building features a long rectangular form, elevated on pilings that ensure structural stability while allowing for groundwater flow during flood events. The roof structure is designed to facilitate rainwater harvesting, assisting residents in maintaining a self-sufficient water supply.

Architectural elements within the project include a combination of durable materials such as steel for the structure and polycarbonate panels for the walls, which enhance natural light while maintaining privacy and security. The internal layout promotes community interaction through shared spaces, integrating flexibility in room configurations to accommodate varying resident needs.

Unique Floating Design Approach

One distinguishing characteristic of the "Wuthering Wave" is its floating pontoon foundation system. This innovative support structure allows the entire building to remain above water levels during floods, ensuring that the living areas remain safe and accessible. This approach contrasts with traditional building foundations, which can be vulnerable to flooding. The design effectively eliminates the reliance on ground level infrastructure, providing an adaptable framework suited for flood-prone environments.

Another unique aspect of the project is its emphasis on renewable energy. The integration of solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system reflects a commitment to sustainability. This energy-efficient design reduces reliance on external resources while fostering an eco-conscious lifestyle for its residents.

Community-Centric Design Philosophy

The "Wuthering Wave" project incorporates a community-centric approach that emphasizes shared living and efficient use of space. Communal areas are strategically placed within the building layout, encouraging interaction and collaboration among residents. Adaptable furniture systems and multifunctional spaces reflect a flexible design that can accommodate changing household dynamics, making it suitable for various family sizes and lifestyles.

This thoughtful approach to community engagement ensures that the project does not merely serve as individual dwellings but fosters a sense of belonging and collective identity among residents. The design adopts local building practices and materials, grounding it in the cultural context of Hulu Langat while also addressing contemporary architectural needs.

For those interested in exploring this project further, a review of the architectural plans and sections would provide additional insights into the design strategies employed and the technical specifics of the construction. Understanding the architectural designs and ideas behind the "Wuthering Wave" will be beneficial for anyone looking to study adaptive and sustainable housing solutions.

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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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