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Passive Design With Cantilevered Forms and Natural Stone Facades in Tropical Living

Author:
Pier Paolo Presta
Passive Design With Cantilevered Forms and Natural Stone Facades in Tropical Living

Project in-detail

Cantilevered forms crafted from reinforced concrete and natural stone create a seamless connection to the lush surroundings, while expansive glass openings enhance natural light, culminating in a multifunctional residence designed for contemporary living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cantilevered sections enhance outdoor usability while providing natural shading.
02
Extensive glazing promotes passive cooling and maximizes daylight throughout the interiors.
03
Natural stone facades integrate seamlessly with the tropical landscape.
04
Outdoor terraces are designed to encourage interaction with the surrounding environment.
05
Strategic ventilation channels reduce reliance on mechanical cooling systems.

The architectural design project under review exemplifies a modern residential concept situated within a tropical environment. The structure is characterized by a harmonious integration of outdoor and indoor spaces, utilizing contemporary design principles that prioritize functionality and sustainability. The project's architectural elements are articulated through a series of cantilevered forms, extensive use of glass, and carefully selected materials that foster a close relationship with the surrounding landscape.

The project's primary function is to serve as a residential domicile that accommodates modern family living. The open-plan layout promotes social interaction while offering private areas for relaxation. This duality of space is achieved through a well-thought-out organization of interior zones, ensuring that communal areas are both accessible and connected, yet providing the necessary seclusion for bedrooms and private study areas. The incorporation of outdoor spaces such as terraces and a swimming pool further enhances the living experience, allowing residents to engage with nature throughout the day.

Materials play a crucial role in the project’s design approach. Reinforced concrete provides structural integrity, while natural stone elements introduce warmth and connect the building aesthetically to its environment. The extensive use of glass facilitates natural light penetration and presents unobstructed views that draw the eye to the exterior landscape. These material choices reflect a commitment to durability and low-maintenance living, valid considerations in the architectural design.

The unique aspect of this project lies in its innovative spatial organization and responsive design features. The building’s layered approach, with cantilevered sections, creates inviting outdoor spaces that are shaded yet open, addressing climatic concerns while allowing for outdoor activities to exist harmoniously with indoor living. The architecture also demonstrates a careful consideration of sustainability, utilizing passive solar design principles that optimize energy efficiency and comfort within the home.

The roof terrace exemplifies the project’s focus on maximizing usable spaces and enhancing the residential experience through outdoor functionality. This feature not only serves as a leisure area but also encourages interaction with the surrounding environment, promoting a lifestyle that embraces outdoor living.

For architecture professionals and enthusiasts looking to delve deeper into this project, exploring architectural plans, sections, and detailed design elements will provide further insights into the thoughtful execution of its concepts. Review the architectural designs and architectural ideas presented to appreciate the project’s integration of form and function within its unique context.

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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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