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Natural Stone Cladding and Solar Chimney Integrate Sustainability in Modern Residential Design

Author:
Adegoke Oluwakanni Keshinro
Natural Stone Cladding and Solar Chimney Integrate Sustainability in Modern Residential Design

Project in-detail

Employing a solar chimney and natural stone cladding, the design enhances energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal while serving as a sustainable family residence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs a solar chimney for naturally enhanced ventilation throughout the living spaces.
02
Utilizes locally sourced sandstone for exterior cladding, promoting regional materials.
03
Integrates a central courtyard that functions as a cooling hub for the entire building.
04
Incorporates photovoltaic panels seamlessly within the roof design for maximum energy capture.
05
Features flexible spatial arrangements to adapt to varying lifestyle needs of occupants.

The project embodies a contemporary architectural response to sustainable living in an urban context. It is designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment while prioritizing energy efficiency and resource management. This residential building serves as a model for future homes, focusing on minimizing the ecological footprint while providing adaptable and comfortable living spaces.

The structure’s design prioritizes functionality, making effective use of space across multiple levels. The ground floor integrates communal areas such as the garage and living rooms, while upper floors are dedicated to private spaces, including bedrooms and study areas. A central courtyard enhances indoor-outdoor flow, allowing for natural light and ventilation throughout the living areas.

Sustainable Technologies and Material Selection The architectural design incorporates a variety of sustainable technologies aimed at reducing energy consumption. A solar chimney facilitates natural airflow, improving indoor cooling without relying on mechanical systems. Windcatchers are strategically positioned to capture breezes, further enhancing thermal comfort.

Materiality plays a significant role in the design, with a selection that promotes durability and sustainability. Concrete forms the building's core structure, while sandstone is used for cladding, effectively regulating temperature. Large glazed windows introduce abundant natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting. The integration of solar panels not only generates energy but aligns with the project's sustainability goals.

Innovative Approach to Space and Design Flexibility What sets this project apart is its holistic approach to space utilization and design flexibility. The layout allows for various configurations that can adapt to the changing needs of occupants over time. By creating a balance between private and communal areas, the design fosters social interaction while maintaining personal privacy.

Landscaping and environmental integration further enhance the building's appeal. Gardens surrounding the structure not only serve aesthetic purposes but also support biodiversity and contribute to environmental sustainability. This approach emphasizes a connection to nature, contrasting with traditional urban designs that often prioritize built environments over natural ones.

For a comprehensive understanding of this architectural endeavor, readers are encouraged to examine the architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs available for review. Exploring these elements will provide deeper insights into the innovative ideas that define this 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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