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Living Walls and Natural Stone in a Sustainable Desert Dwelling

Authors:
Noor Nabil Ahmed Al-baser, Azzhra'a Al-nunu, Jumana Almassoudi, Hadil Mohammed Ahmed Al-kuhali, Walid Ibrahim Ahmed Jaafar, Abrar Ali
Living Walls and Natural Stone in a Sustainable Desert Dwelling

Project in-detail

Integrating living walls with natural stone, this sustainable dwelling adapts to the desert climate while fostering community interaction in a thoughtfully designed residential space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates living walls that enhance insulation and air quality.
02
Utilizes natural stone sourced locally to reduce environmental impact.
03
Features an innovative irrigation system designed for desert sustainability.
04
Integrates multiple roof gardens to expand usable outdoor space.
05
Prioritizes communal courtyard areas to foster social interaction.

The project known as “Villa of the Future – Hanging Gardens of Babylon” is an architectural design that harmonizes modern living with elements derived from ancient architectural practices. It captures the essence of the historical Hanging Gardens while integrating sustainable practices suitable for a contemporary desert environment. This villa acts as a residential space, providing a unique fusion of comfort, aesthetic beauty, and ecological sensibility.

Central to the villa's design is the philosophy of blending architecture with nature. The structure features expansive greenery throughout, including living walls and various garden spaces that promote biodiversity. Water features such as pools and fountains are strategically placed to create a cooling microclimate, enhancing the overall living experience. The villa serves as a refuge from the harsh desert climate, instilling a sense of peace and community.

The project's important parts include:

- **Central Courtyards and Gathering Spaces**: These areas are designed for social interaction, providing shelter from the sun while encouraging communal activities. - **Roof Terraces**: Multi-functional spaces that extend living areas outdoors, allowing for gardens that contribute to both the villa’s aesthetic and ecological footprint. - **Integration of Water Elements**: Pools and gardens facilitate outdoor activities and help maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.

Sustainable Materials and Construction Techniques

The selection of building materials reflects a commitment to sustainability without compromising aesthetic value. Key materials include:

- Wood Plastic Composite: Utilized in façade elements for durability and low maintenance. - Clay: Serving as a versatile building material that regulates temperature and humidity effectively. - Natural Stone: Chosen for its strength and natural beauty, aligning with low environmental impact principles.

Unique Design Approaches

This project distinguishes itself through its innovative use of vertical gardens and open spaces. By incorporating living walls and extensive green roofs, the architectural design not only facilitates a better connection to the natural environment but also contributes to energy efficiency. The thoughtful placement of openings enhances airflow, allowing natural ventilation that minimizes the reliance on artificial cooling systems.

The integration of communal squares within the layout provides spaces for social engagement while maintaining individual privacy in residential zones. This dual-functionality promotes a sense of community without sacrificing personal comfort. Additionally, the project emphasizes the importance of utilizing local materials, ensuring that the design is contextually relevant and environmentally sustainable.

For a comprehensive overview of the “Villa of the Future – Hanging Gardens of Babylon,” including detailed architectural plans, sections, and further insights into architectural designs and ideas, explore the project presentation. This resource offers an in-depth understanding of the villa's design strategies and functional elements.

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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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