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Modular Living Enhanced by Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels

Authors:
Bushra Ahmad Fannoun Ateyyeh, Sondos Mohammad Ahmad Barhoumi
Modular Living Enhanced by Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels define a modular living space that seamlessly integrates traditional Emirati architectural elements with a contemporary focus on sustainability and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced durability and fire resistance while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to rapid construction and reduced environmental impact.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for optimal space utilization and improved energy efficiency.
04
A central courtyard fosters community interaction while offering private outdoor areas.
05
Mashrabiya-inspired elements enhance ventilation and privacy, honoring traditional design.

The Morpharch is an architectural project located in the United Arab Emirates, designed to integrate modern living with traditional Emirati culture. The project emphasizes modularity and adaptability, featuring a series of interconnected living units organized around a central courtyard. This layout fosters community interaction while maintaining a degree of privacy for residents. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces aims to address the varying needs of contemporary families.

The design presents a balance of cultural reference and modern functionality. Traditional architectural elements, such as mashrabiya screens and arches, have been reinterpreted to form a cohesive visual identity that respects historical context while promoting contemporary requirements. The central courtyard not only serves as an aesthetic focal point but also enhances social cohesion among residents. By incorporating water features, the design acknowledges the significance of water in Emirati culture and the calming effect it contributes to the environment.

Modular Living Design

One of the project’s unique attributes lies in its modular approach. Each living unit is designed to be flexible, allowing occupants to customize their spaces according to their lifestyle preferences. This adaptability accommodates varying family sizes and evolving needs, setting this project apart from conventional residential architectures. Such a design approach aligns well with sustainability goals, ensuring efficient use of resources and material while enabling future modifications.

Additionally, the integration of large glazed openings enhances natural light penetration and contributes to the indoor climate regulation. The design prioritizes cross-ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems and thereby promoting energy efficiency. The choice of sustainable materials, including responsibly sourced timber and high thermal mass concrete, further underlines the project's commitment to ecological responsibility.

Cultural Integration and Contextual Relevance

The Morpharch embodies a rich dialogue between its architectural expression and its geographical context. By integrating elements of traditional Emirati architecture, the project creates a sense of place that resonates with local inhabitants. Visual references, such as the reinterpretation of traditional arches and the use of decorative screens, serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, reinforcing cultural identity while meeting contemporary needs.

The open courtyard serves as a primary social gathering space, supporting community interaction while facilitating informal gatherings and events. This design feature echoes traditional Emirati homes, where family and community life are centralized within a communal area.

For further exploration of the Morpharch, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas, interested readers are encouraged to delve into the project presentation for comprehensive insights into this notable architectural endeavor.

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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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