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Mud-Concrete Living Spaces Embracing Natural Ventilation and Communal Interaction

Authors:
Moctar Ahouantchede, Ousmane bachécou dit kissima Doucoure, Bonto Konwoma Ulrich Pare
Mud-Concrete Living Spaces Embracing Natural Ventilation and Communal Interaction

Project in-detail

Integrating Mud-Concrete construction with adaptive shading and communal spaces, this residence fosters a seamless connection between indoor living and the natural environment while accommodating diverse social interactions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Mud-Concrete blocks for enhanced thermal performance and sustainability.
02
Features folding windows that create flexible transitions between indoor and outdoor living.
03
Incorporates automatic shutters for adaptive shading and energy efficiency.
04
The design includes communal outdoor areas that promote social interaction among residents.
05
Strategically positioned to harness natural airflow and optimize the microclimate.

The Brick Manzil is an architectural project situated in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Designed to respond to the climatic and social environment of the region, this residence emphasizes a functional layout that merges indoor and outdoor living spaces. The project features a land area of 450 square meters, incorporating distinct zones for communal and private activities while ensuring a cohesive flow throughout the home.

The design strategically organizes three primary components: outdoor spaces, indoor areas, and common zones. This segmentation facilitates a functional approach, enabling flexible usage and communal interactions. Surrounding outdoor elements include trees and water features, enhancing the microclimate and providing a conducive environment for social gatherings. Special attention is given to the alignment of these spaces, optimizing airflow and natural shade throughout the day.

Sustainable design principles are central to The Brick Manzil, utilizing innovative materials such as Mud-Concrete Blocks. This new material balances traditional mud with modern concrete to improve thermal performance and reduce environmental impact. The choice of materials not only strengthens the structure but also ensures energy efficiency. Concrete is employed in the core framework, providing necessary support, while the exterior cladding showcases the visual appeal of the Mud-Concrete Blocks. The integration of photovoltaic solar panels further bolsters the project’s sustainability credentials.

The architectural design exhibits unique strategies that set it apart. The use of folding windows allows for an adaptable living space that can transform based on social needs, effectively merging indoor and outdoor environments. The layout incorporates automatic shutters, functioning as sunshades and enhancing energy efficiency, particularly for the east-facing sections of the residence. This thoughtful implementation of modern technology in response to traditional practices exemplifies a dual respect for heritage and innovation.

The distribution of spaces within The Brick Manzil exhibits a deliberate flow. The ground floor includes communal areas like the living room and kitchen, promoting interaction among residents. Upper floors are dedicated to private quarters, including bedrooms and a home office, ensuring a balance between privacy and community engagement. Each area is meticulously designed to cater to everyday living while accommodating festive gatherings, reflective of cultural priorities.

To gain deeper insights into The Brick Manzil, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs. This exploration will provide additional context to the innovative design approaches and materials that constitute this meaningful residential project.

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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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