Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Rammed Earth Walls With Charred Wooden Shingles in a Sustainable Family Residence

Authors:
Henk Nico Rusting, Myrthe Lara Peet, Cenk Batuhan Özaltun
Rammed Earth Walls With Charred Wooden Shingles in a Sustainable Family Residence

Project in-detail

Rammed earth walls and charred wooden shingles create a resilient envelope that enhances thermal efficiency while accommodating a flexible living environment designed for family life.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide superior thermal mass, reducing energy consumption.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels allow for quick assembly and structural efficiency.
03
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and provide a distinctive aesthetic.
04
The bent A-frame design promotes natural ventilation and light distribution.
05
Flexible interior spaces accommodate changing family needs over time.

The architectural project "Solace" features a contemporary residence designed with an emphasis on environmental sustainability and cultural relevance. Located in the United Arab Emirates, this project seamlessly integrates modern architectural practices with traditional design elements, producing a dwelling that addresses the region's climatic challenges while reflecting its cultural heritage.

The design consists of distinct spatial arrangements that separate communal areas from private quarters. This layout facilitates both interaction and privacy, ensuring a functional living environment for its inhabitants. The use of natural materials, such as rammed earth bricks, cross-laminated timber, and low-emission glazing, contributes to the building's energy efficiency and thermal stability.

Innovative features, such as a central courtyard, enhance the home's livability by promoting natural ventilation and light. The courtyard serves as a gathering point, reinforcing social connections within the household while providing outdoor space for leisure and relaxation.

Sustainability is a core principle of the project. The architecture incorporates various energy-efficient systems, including solar panels and rainwater harvesting, which minimize the ecological footprint. The design team has prioritized using locally sourced materials and construction methods to enhance economic viability and support local craftsmanship.

Flexible spaces are another hallmark of "Solace." The use of adaptable FlexModules allows for alterations in the home's configuration, enabling it to meet the changing needs of its inhabitants over time. This approach represents a forward-thinking perspective in residential design, emphasizing longevity and functionality without compromising aesthetic values.

Architectural Details and Design Elements

Attention to detail is evident throughout the project. The rammed earth bricks not only provide thermal mass but also lend a natural aesthetic that connects the building to its surroundings. The reflective stucco finish enhances the building's energy efficiency by reducing solar heat gain. Cross-laminated timber elements add structural integrity while promoting a warm and inviting atmosphere indoors.

The arrangement of windows is carefully considered to optimize natural light and airflow, reducing reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems. The low-e triple argon-filled glazing plays a significant role in controlling heat transfer, contributing to a comfortable indoor environment.

The overall design reflects a deep understanding of the local culture and environment, marrying traditional architectural forms with modern construction techniques. This synthesis of ideas results in a residence that is not only visually appealing but also highly functional and sustainable.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas of the "Solace" project, readers are encouraged to explore detailed presentations that provide a comprehensive overview of its innovative elements and design strategies.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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.

`

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

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy