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Recycled Marble Residue and Elevated Timber Structures in Sustainable Worker Housing

Authors:
Ovidiu-alexandru Dobre, Ioana bianca Voican, Sebastian alexandru Boldea, Roberta maria Teodorescu
Recycled Marble Residue and Elevated Timber Structures in Sustainable Worker Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing recycled marble residue and an elevated timber framework, the design provides sustainable housing solutions for workers in Romania's marble quarrying industry.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled marble residue in construction to reduce waste.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
04
Elevated design allows natural water drainage and protects the site.
05
Includes communal spaces tailored for worker interaction and community building.

The Marble Quarry Housing Project is situated in Ruschita, Romania, an area noted for its rich marble deposits, which hold significant cultural and economic value. This architectural project aims to provide functional housing for workers engaged in local quarrying activities. The design emphasizes sustainability, community, and integration with the surrounding landscape, responding effectively to environmental and social needs.

The layout consists of modular housing units grouped into clusters, fostering a sense of community among residents while allowing flexible configurations for future adaptation. Elevated on stilts, these units minimize site disturbance and ensure efficient water drainage. The architectural form features angled roofs that reflect the region's mountainous topography.

Sustainability is a fundamental aspect of the design. Local materials are utilized extensively, particularly concrete, wood, metal, and glass. Recycled marble residue, a byproduct of quarrying, is repurposed in the construction process, highlighting economic efficiency and environmental responsibility. The project incorporates solar panels on the roofs, emphasizing renewable energy use. Natural ventilation and ample natural light are achieved through strategically placed openings and glazing, further reducing energy dependency.

Architectural Integration with Environment The Marble Quarry Housing Project emphasizes its connection with the landscape. The design envelopes the terrain's natural contours, ensuring minimal disruption to the existing ecosystem. The use of stilted construction and elevated platforms maintains the natural water flow and allows the site to remain accessible in various weather conditions. The thoughtful elevation also facilitates views of the surrounding landscape, enhancing the quality of life for the residents.

Unique design features include communal spaces integrated within each housing cluster, encouraging social interaction among workers. These spaces are designed to support various activities, contributing to a strong sense of community amidst the working environment. Coupled with the functional living spaces, these areas reflect a comprehensive understanding of the users' needs.

Sustainable Construction Techniques and Materials The project embodies a dedication to environmentally responsible practices through the application of sustainable construction methods. The innovative use of local timber, which provides warmth and comfort, alongside durable concrete and metal for structural integrity, demonstrates an efficient approach to material selection. Architectural sections illustrate the intricacies of the construction, showcasing how various elements work together to create a cohesive living environment.

The integration of rainwater collection systems further highlights the project’s commitment to sustainability. These systems provide a reliable water source, promoting self-sufficiency while minimizing environmental impact. The design of the housing units prioritizes both functionality and efficiency, ensuring that resources are utilized responsibly throughout the living space.

The Marble Quarry Housing Project stands as a noteworthy example of effective architectural practice that addresses the practical and social requirements of its occupants. To explore the full architectural plans, sections, and other design elements in detail, interested readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project presentation for comprehensive insights into its various components and innovative solutions.

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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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