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Micro-Ecosystem Built With Recycled Materials and Modular Design for Sustainable Living

Authors:
Jiahn Jang, Yeonseo Park
Micro-Ecosystem Built With Recycled Materials and Modular Design for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing modular design principles and recycled materials, the habitat fosters a micro-ecosystem while providing sustainable living solutions for refugee communities in Somalia.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for flexible configurations tailored to community needs.
02
Incorporation of a micro-ecosystem enhances local biodiversity and environmental health.
03
Use of recycled materials, including engineered wood and cork, promotes sustainability.
04
Integrated passive water collection systems address water scarcity in arid conditions.
05
Natural ventilation design optimizes energy efficiency in the harsh climate.

The project titled "IN & OUT: Habitat for Livings" addresses the urgent housing crisis faced by refugee populations in Somalia, an area severely impacted by climate change and environmental instability. This architectural design employs modular principles, focusing on creating flexible living spaces that not only provide shelter but also contribute to the local ecosystem. Through innovative design solutions, the project emphasizes sustainability and resilience, tailoring its approach to the specific needs of the community it serves.

Modular Design and Community Integration

One of the key aspects of this project is its modular design approach, which allows for adaptability and scalability based on the dynamic needs of the resident population. Each unit can be configured in various ways to foster community interaction, enabling a sense of belonging among occupants. This flexibility is essential in addressing the diverse requirements of refugees, who may come from different backgrounds and circumstances.

The integration of green spaces within and around the units is another distinctive feature. The design encourages the development of micro-ecosystems, with gardens and green walls that enhance biodiversity and improve air quality. This focus on ecological integration not only benefits the environment but also promotes social cohesion among residents, who can engage in community gardening and shared activities.

Sustainability Through Innovative Practices

Sustainability is at the core of the architectural approach. Materials such as photovoltaic panels, recycled roofing, and engineered wood are employed to create an environmentally responsible habitat. Photovoltaic panels harness solar energy, reducing reliance on non-renewable resources. Additionally, passive water collection systems are integrated to address water scarcity, allowing for gray water recycling and efficient irrigation in landscaping efforts.

This project utilizes local materials and construction methods, reducing its carbon footprint and promoting economic resilience. By incorporating features like natural ventilation and thermal mass, the design optimizes energy efficiency, ensuring comfortable living conditions within the arid climate of Somalia.

The "IN & OUT: Habitat for Livings" project exemplifies modern architectural solutions tailored to the nuanced needs of displaced populations. By prioritizing modularity, ecological integration, and sustainability, this design serves as a model for future humanitarian architecture initiatives.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas presented in this project, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed project presentation.

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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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