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Rainwater Harvesting and Straw Bale Insulation in a Biophilic Woodland Retreat

Authors:
Qingzhou Jiang, Sifei Mo
Rainwater Harvesting and Straw Bale Insulation in a Biophilic Woodland Retreat

Project in-detail

Combining straw bale insulation with engineered wood structures, the design emphasizes sustainability and ecological harmony, serving as a tranquil retreat for reflection and community engagement within a forested landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features a rainwater harvesting system integrated into the design.
02
Utilizes straw bale insulation for enhanced thermal performance.
03
Incorporates biophilic design principles to connect occupants with nature.
04
Employs large glass panels to maximize natural light and forest views.
05
Includes flexible spaces that adapt to varied communal activities.

The Forest Retreat is an architectural project designed as a nature-centric dwelling, emphasizing the interaction between the built environment and its surrounding woodland context. Set in a densely forested area, the structure seeks to merge human activities with nature, functioning as a space for meditation, relaxation, and community gatherings. This design prioritizes ecological sustainability and aims to enhance the experience of solitude and reflection within a forest environment.

Spatially, the Forest Retreat consists of an elongated form that integrates multiple interlinked volumes, promoting a layered experience as occupants move through the space. The design utilizes strategic positioning to optimize natural light penetration, enhancing indoor comfort while minimizing energy consumption. Key functional areas include a communal gathering space, private sleeping quarters, and essential utility areas such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Sustainability is a focal point of this project, implemented through the choice of materials and specific design strategies. This building employs engineered wood such as glulam beams for structural integrity, while straw bales provide insulation to ensure energy efficiency. The thatched roofing not only serves aesthetic purposes but also enhances environmental performance. Large glass windows are strategically placed to provide unobstructed views of the forest, fostering a connection between interior spaces and the external environment. Furthermore, the addition of a rainwater harvesting system underlines the project's commitment to ecological responsibility.

The design of the Forest Retreat diverges from conventional architectural approaches through its adaptive and flexible layouts. Spaces within the building can be repurposed easily for various activities, from community gatherings to personal reflection. The integration of outdoor features, including a boardwalk leading into the forest, encourages occupants to engage with the environment actively. The project incorporates natural terrain into its circulation paths, maintaining minimal disruption to the natural landscape while promoting exploration.

The architectural organization reflects a keen awareness of solar orientation and environmental context, enabling occupants to benefit from optimal thermal comfort throughout the year. This site-specific strategy ensures that the building not only sits harmoniously within its surroundings but also operates efficiently, addressing the demands of modern living while honoring the landscape's natural beauty.

For a more comprehensive understanding, interested readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that further elucidate the innovative aspects of the Forest Retreat project and its thoughtful architectural ideas.

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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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