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Masonry Vaults and Recycled Concrete Shaping A Community-Centric Residence

Authors:
Ho Yin Tang, Tin Shun Jonathan But
Masonry Vaults and Recycled Concrete Shaping A Community-Centric Residence

Project in-detail

Incorporating masonry vaults and recycled concrete to enhance thermal performance, this residence serves as a community-focused living space that elegantly balances traditional Emirati design with modern sustainability practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Masonry vaults enhance natural ventilation and daylight while improving energy efficiency.
02
Recycled concrete reduces material waste and lowers the environmental impact of construction.
03
Aluminum mashrabiya screens provide traditional shading and privacy in a modern context.
04
A multi-functional roof garden supports local biodiversity and urban greening initiatives.
05
3D-printed components streamline construction and allow for customized architectural features.

The D.E.F.G. project, known as the Domus of Emirati Future Generation, embodies a synthesis of modern architectural practices with traditional Emirati design elements. Located in Dubai, this residential structure serves as both an abode and a cultural hub, reflecting the values and social dynamics of the local community. The architectural form emphasizes efficiency, sustainability, and cultural continuity, showcasing an innovative approach to contemporary living.

The layout of D.E.F.G. is organized to facilitate social interaction among family members while providing private spaces for individual needs. The design integrates various communal areas, including a traditional *majliss*, which serves as a gathering space that reinforces community ties. The combination of public and private areas maximizes functionality and reinforces relationships within the household.

The building's unique approach includes the use of recycled concrete in its structural elements, a practice that significantly minimizes environmental impact. The incorporation of 3D-printed components for specific architectural features streamlines construction and reduces waste. Furthermore, traditional aluminum mashrabiya are reinterpreted to provide shading and privacy in a modern context, facilitating ventilation while adhering to cultural aesthetics.

Key architectural features include masonry vaults that enhance natural ventilation and light penetration throughout the living areas. These vaults improve the building's thermal performance while contributing to the overall aesthetic of the structure. Wind catchers integrated into the design act as natural ventilators, optimizing airflow within the living spaces. Solar panels can be adapted to the roof design, promoting energy efficiency and sustainable practices.

The D.E.F.G. project stands out due to its seamless blend of sustainability with cultural identity, employing both cutting-edge technology and traditional design to create a functional and visually appealing environment. The thoughtful material selections—recycled concrete, natural stone, and 3D-printed components—affect not only the building's aesthetics but also its environmental performance.

Explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs of the D.E.F.G. project to gain deeper insights into this thoughtful approach to modern Emirati architecture. The unique architectural ideas employed in this project offer valuable lessons and inspiration for future developments.

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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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