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Layered Coral Structures Featuring Natural Plaster and Copper Accents in a Community Environment

Authors:
Aleeya Khan, Anum Rashid Khan , Dua Syed
Layered Coral Structures Featuring Natural Plaster and Copper Accents in a Community Environment

Project in-detail

Layered coral structures combine natural plaster with copper accents, creating a sustainable community environment that reflects the rich heritage of Bastakiya while providing versatile living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Layered coral structures enhance thermal efficiency while providing a connection to traditional Emirati architecture.
02
Natural plaster finishes contribute to interior air quality by allowing moisture regulation.
03
Copper accents are strategically used to highlight structural elements and enhance durability.
04
Central courtyards are designed to optimize natural light and promote communal interactions.
05
Combined materials offer a contemporary interpretation of stacking architecture unique to the Bastakiya context.

The ALTARAS architectural project is situated in the historic Bastakiya district of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This design seeks to merge contemporary urban living with the rich cultural heritage of the region. It embodies the principles of stacking architecture, reflecting the traditional Emirati approach to space organization and functionality. The project integrates layers of activity and interaction, taking advantage of unique topographical and climatic conditions to enhance both aesthetic appeal and livability.

The primary function of the ALTARAS project is to provide a sustainable living environment that encourages community engagement while respecting the cultural context of its surroundings. The design features a harmonious blend of private and communal spaces, ensuring both solitude and social interaction are accessible to residents. The architectural layout promotes efficient use of space and optimal comfort through thoughtfully designed interiors and outdoor areas.

The layering approach within ALTARAS allows for varied heights in both interior and exterior spaces, creating dynamic interactions among different levels. Central courtyards serve as signature features, fostering light and ventilation, contributing positively to indoor air quality, and enhancing the microclimate. These courtyards function as community hubs, encouraging social gatherings and interactions while providing a green respite amid urban settings.

The integration of traditional materials—such as coral stone cladding and sand-colored plaster—distinguishes ALTARAS from typical modern developments. The project employs sustainable materials that maintain thermal efficiency and support local craftsmanship. Additionally, the extensive use of glass in the facade not only enhances aesthetic qualities but also reinforces connections to the outdoor environment.

The project incorporates innovative sustainability features, including a greywater recycling system, which enhances resource efficiency. The design also effectively utilizes passive cooling techniques, minimizing energy consumption in line with sustainable building practices.

Potential readers interested in architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas are encouraged to explore the comprehensive presentation of the ALTARAS project for more detailed insights into its thoughtful design and unique features.

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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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