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Rammed Earth Structure With Solar Panels and Flexible Living Spaces Emphasizing Cultural Heritage

Author:
Rami Harkous
Rammed Earth Structure With Solar Panels and Flexible Living Spaces Emphasizing Cultural Heritage

Project in-detail

Inspired by traditional Emirati architecture, the residence utilizes rammed earth construction and solar panels, creating flexible living spaces that adapt to evolving family needs while emphasizing sustainability and cultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth panels for thermal efficiency and low environmental impact.
02
Incorporates solar panels seamlessly into the roof design for energy self-sufficiency.
03
Features flexible interior layouts to accommodate changing family dynamics.
04
Integrates traditional Emirati architectural elements into a modern framework.
05
Utilizes locally sourced materials to strengthen regional ties and reduce carbon footprint.

The Nostalgia Nexus Residence is an architectural project situated in Dubai, UAE, that emphasizes a harmonious blend of contemporary design and cultural heritage. This residence illustrates innovative construction methods while paying homage to traditional Emirati architecture. The design prioritizes functionality, sustainability, and adaptability, resulting in a living space that meets the dynamic needs of its inhabitants.

The project functions as a residential space that accommodates families with varying requirements. Its layout is organized into public, mid, and private zones, ensuring effective space utilization and fostering community interaction alongside personal privacy. Various flexible spaces facilitate changing family dynamics and lifestyles, making it adaptable over time.

Innovative Use of Local Materials

The Nostalgia Nexus Residence distinguishes itself through the use of local materials, such as rammed earth panels that promote thermal efficiency and serve as structural elements. The integration of aluminum copping in roofing adds a modern touch while ensuring durability. Solar panels are thoughtfully incorporated to harness renewable energy, aligning with sustainable building practices. The use of recycled materials further enhances the project’s ecological footprint, showcasing a commitment to environmental relevance.

The architectural design emphasizes passive cooling techniques, utilizing natural ventilation strategies to minimize reliance on mechanical air conditioning. This approach not only supports energy conservation but also aligns with the climatic conditions of Dubai. Interior spaces are designed for flexibility, with movable walls that allow residents to modify layouts according to their changing needs.

Adaptable and Flexible Design Strategies

The residence is structured to accommodate different life stages through three defined growth phases. This adaptability is a vital aspect of its design, allowing it to evolve alongside its inhabitants. The initial phase caters to newlyweds, featuring an intimate environment with minimalistic design. As families grow, the space expands to include additional rooms and communal areas for interaction. The final stage focuses on accessibility for aging residents, ensuring comfort without compromising independence.

Incorporating natural elements into the design enhances the living experience and aligns the structure with its environmental context. Outdoor spaces and gardens are integrated into the overall layout, encouraging interaction with nature and reinforcing connections to the local landscape.

The Nostalgia Nexus Residence sets a standard for residential architecture that combines cultural sensitivity with modern design strategies. Its focus on sustainability, adaptability, and innovative material use exemplifies responsible architectural practices. For a comprehensive understanding, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, including architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain deeper insights into this sophisticated 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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