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Modular Housing Crafted From Reinforced Concrete and Natural Timber for Urban Resilience

Authors:
francisco liano lopez, victor manuel vicente gomez, Carlos Davis Hernandez, Diego Antonio Dominguez
Modular Housing Crafted From Reinforced Concrete and Natural Timber for Urban Resilience

Project in-detail

Crafted with interlocking modular cubes of reinforced concrete and natural timber, the design enhances urban resilience while providing affordable housing solutions tailored for dynamic community living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Interlocking cube modules allow for flexible housing arrangements to accommodate varying family sizes.
02
Reinforced concrete structures ensure durability while minimizing maintenance needs in urban settings.
03
Natural timber elements are incorporated for warmth and aesthetic appeal, enhancing the living environment.
04
Design features promote natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems.
05
Shared communal spaces foster social interaction and community cohesion among residents.

The "Folding Cubes" architectural project is conceptualized to address the housing crisis in urban environments, specifically within the context of Hong Kong. This project focuses on providing affordable housing solutions to marginalized communities, utilizing a modular design approach that maximizes spatial efficiency. The organization of the structure allows for interlocking cube units, promoting versatility and adaptability according to the needs of various residents. Through this design, the project aims to enhance living conditions and foster social interaction among inhabitants.

Innovative Modular Design The "Folding Cubes" project stands out due to its modular approach to housing. Each unit is designed as a geometric cube, which can be stacked, expanded, or rearranged to fit different plot sizes and layouts. This flexibility is particularly crucial in a densely populated area like Hong Kong, where property constraints often limit traditional housing development. The cubical forms can be configured to accommodate varying family structures, making the project highly adaptable to user needs. Additionally, the design includes the integration of communal spaces that promote social interaction, thus enhancing community ties among residents.

Sustainability and Materiality The design incorporates a selection of sustainable materials aimed at reducing the environmental impact of the construction process. Key materials include wood for internal furnishings, reinforced concrete for structural support, aluminum for window framing, plasterboard for interior walls, and polystyrene for insulation. This combination reduces energy consumption while ensuring durability and functionality. Such attention to material choice not only addresses practical needs but also reflects a commitment to environmentally responsible architecture. Furthermore, the project considers climatic conditions through features that enhance natural ventilation and maintain thermal comfort, demonstrating a responsive design tactic.

The "Folding Cubes" project offers a compelling solution to urban housing issues through its innovative modular design and sustainable approach. For a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and design elements that underpin this project, readers are encouraged to explore the full 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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