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Preserving Heritage with Local Masonry and Contemporary Aluminum in a Community Tea Space

Author:
Hristiyana Vassileva
Preserving Heritage with Local Masonry and Contemporary Aluminum in a Community Tea Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing historical masonry alongside modern aluminum panels, the design creates a tranquil space for tea culture, seamlessly integrating community engagement with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes masonry from a structure dating back to 1850.
02
Incorporates a modern aluminum sandwich panel roof for insulation and durability.
03
Features large arched windows to enhance natural light and ventilation.
04
Designed with terraced seating areas that integrate with the landscape.
05
Promotes community engagement through flexible indoor and outdoor spaces.

### Overview

The Ozolini Tea House is located in a rural landscape characterized by lush greenery and serene vistas, providing an environment conducive to relaxation and reflection. The design emphasizes functionality while honoring the cultural significance of tea-making, aiming to create a dedicated space for social interaction and community engagement.

### Design Philosophy

**Sustainable Heritage**: The project integrates historical masonry from 1850 with contemporary materials, reflecting a commitment to local heritage. This combination of old and new not only maintains a connection to the past but also enhances the tea house's contextual relevance.

**Modernity and Functionalism**: The introduction of an aluminum sandwich panel roof represents a modern architectural approach, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. This modern element alongside traditional materials encourages visitors to contemplate the interplay between historical and contemporary design.

### Material Selection

The material palette has been chosen to ensure durability, sustainability, and aesthetic coherence. The lower portions of the structure utilize original masonry to convey historical significance, while the aluminum roof offers insulation and a modern look. Glass is employed extensively in window sections to facilitate natural light and connect the interior with the surrounding landscape. Concrete is used in the flooring and structural components, providing a robust and versatile foundation for the design.

### Architectural Features

The Ozolini Tea House features several distinctive architectural elements:

- **Facade**: A blend of traditional masonry and sleek modern materials, complemented by large windows that frame views of the landscape.

- **Roof**: The sloped aluminum roof serves dual purposes: aesthetic enhancement and effective water drainage, promoting a comfortable interior environment.

- **Windows and Arches**: Arched windows inspired by historical styles facilitate cross-ventilation and maximize light admission.

- **Open Sitting Areas**: Designed to promote social interaction, both indoor and outdoor seating arrangements encourage communal activities.

- **Terraced Spaces**: These areas provide opportunities for outdoor gatherings while integrating tea-drinking experiences with the natural surroundings.

This design encapsulates a balance between historical reverence and contemporary application, fostering user engagement and reinforcing the cultural significance of tea culture.

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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

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