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Perforated Metal Facade and Asymmetrical Balance in Community-Centric Urban Living

Author:
Arwa Atwa
Perforated Metal Facade and Asymmetrical Balance in Community-Centric Urban Living
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The double-facade system of perforated metal skin enhances thermal performance while creating a visually dynamic urban hub that fosters community interaction and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project includes a sky lobby hub that serves as a key social gathering point, providing panoramic views of the city.
02
The double façade features perforated metal skin that enhances energy efficiency while reflecting the local environment.
03
Natural ventilation systems are integrated throughout to minimize heat gain and improve indoor climate control.
04
Public spaces are designed to facilitate community interaction, with accessible terraces and social hubs spread across multiple levels.
05
A focus on asymmetrical balance in the structure adds visual dynamism, differentiating it from conventional designs.

The Living Skyscraper in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, combines community living with environmental sustainability. Designed as a multi-functional structure, it provides spaces that encourage social interaction and collaboration. The project seeks to create a continuous environment where residents and visitors can connect, reflecting the dynamic nature of urban life.

Design Concept

The design utilizes the subtraction of form to develop various social hubs within the tower. This approach helps reduce wind pressure on the building facade. It also allows for natural ventilation through the slabs, leading to lower heat gain in interior spaces. This strategy significantly improves energy efficiency and enhances the comfort of the environment.

Public Interaction

Inside the Living Skyscraper, the layout promotes a sense of openness and accessibility. Public areas such as a plaza, podium terraces, and a primary social hub are designed to foster community engagement. Smaller office social hubs are created to offer flexible workspaces, encouraging collaboration among users. The sky lobby hub serves as a visual and social focal point, providing remarkable views and a gathering space for residents and visitors alike.

Material Application

The structure features a double façade system that uses perforated metal skin on the south and west sides. This choice of material is functional and aligned with the natural context of Jeddah. The façade design enhances the building's thermal performance, helping to regulate temperature while also contributing visually to the surrounding area.

Spatial Flexibility

Technological elements in the Living Skyscraper enhance its adaptability. Flexible interior layouts allow for various configurations based on user needs. Movable panels create dynamic spaces that can be transformed as required. Smart motion sensors for lighting improve energy efficiency, adjusting illumination based on occupancy while maintaining the necessary light levels.

The overall structure connects its ecological goals with community living, creating an environment that encourages socialization while prioritizing sustainability. The design reflects a thoughtful approach to modern urban life, prioritizing both function and interaction.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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