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Gypsum Concrete Walls and Sliding Sunscreens Define a Sustainable Family Residence

Author:
Ludovicus Dams
Gypsum Concrete Walls and Sliding Sunscreens Define a Sustainable Family Residence

Project in-detail

Gypsum concrete walls and an integrated majlis enhanced by sliding sunscreens create a functional living space designed for family interaction while emphasizing sustainability and local biodiversity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Gypsum concrete walls provide superior thermal insulation and fire resistance.
02
Sliding sunscreens enhance energy efficiency by regulating natural light and heat gain.
03
The central majlis facilitates community engagement, reflecting cultural traditions.
04
Local flora landscaping promotes biodiversity and integrates the home with its environment.
05
Ample indoor-outdoor connectivity fosters a seamless flow between living spaces and nature.

The architectural project "House of the Old Future" represents a carefully considered integration of traditional and contemporary design principles. Located on a 450-square-meter plot with a built area of approximately 300 square meters, the design aims to create a living space that fosters social interaction while providing comfort and functionality. The house is characterized by a central courtyard that connects various living areas and encourages a sense of community.

The layout consists of three primary volumes, each serving distinct functions: the ground floor accommodates family and service areas, the first floor houses private quarters and social spaces, and the second floor features an open majlis designed for gatherings. The project emphasizes seamless indoor-outdoor transitions, aided by large sliding glass doors that enhance natural ventilation and daylighting.

Unique Design Approaches The "House of the Old Future" distinguishes itself through its cultural resonance and focus on sustainable living. The incorporation of a majlis as a primary social space reflects traditional community engagement, while the architectural layout encourages collaboration and family interaction. The building’s landscape employs local flora, enhancing biodiversity and minimizing ecological impact.

Architectural choices include the use of gypsum-concrete bricks for external walls, which provide thermal insulation and flexibility in design. The inclusion of sliding sun screens offers effective heat regulation, a practical application of passive design strategies. Furthermore, solar panels on the roof contribute to energy efficiency, aligning with contemporary demands for sustainability.

Functional Spaces and Materiality The project’s functional distribution supports modern living while respecting historical precedents. The ground floor serves as the service core, ensuring privacy for the family spaces located on upper floors. The design incorporates spacious gardens, connecting interiors to nature and promoting well-being.

Materials have been chosen for both performance and aesthetic qualities, with gypsum-concrete bricks providing durability and thermal efficiency. The sliding glass doors not only facilitate connectivity between spaces but also bring in ample natural light. The landscape elements further integrate the built environment with the ecological framework.

For a detailed understanding of the project, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, explore the project presentation to gain deeper insights into this innovative residential solution.

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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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