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Reflective Façade and Modular Design Emphasizing Sustainable Wood Construction in a Compact Residential Space

Authors:
Catarina Rodrigues, Ana Ferreira, Maria Azevedo
Reflective Façade and Modular Design Emphasizing Sustainable Wood Construction in a Compact Residential Space

Project in-detail

Incorporating a reflective façade and cross-laminated timber construction, the design fosters a connection to its environment while serving as an efficient residential space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a reflective façade that enhances the natural landscape.
02
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetics.
04
Incorporates rainwater harvesting systems to promote water conservation.
05
Utilizes a bent A-frame structure to optimize space and stability.

The project "Living on the Wall" embodies a contemporary architectural approach that emphasizes sustainability and a seamless integration of living spaces within the natural landscape. This residence is designed to optimize space while promoting efficient resource use. The design aims to enhance the interaction between occupants and their environment, creating a functional yet inviting atmosphere.

The core function of the project centers around providing essential living amenities including bathing, cooking, and sleeping, while preserving a level of privacy and community interaction. The design achieves this through a strategic layout that zones areas based on their respective functions, facilitating both shared experiences and individual retreats.

Spatial Organization and Zoning

The architectural design showcases a thoughtful arrangement of spaces. The ground floor incorporates both communal and private areas to enhance user interaction while ensuring comfort. The wet zones containing bathing facilities are conveniently positioned alongside the kitchen and living areas, promoting accessibility and efficient plumbing integration. The private sleeping quarters, positioned apart, offer tranquility and personal space.

Vertical dimensions play a crucial role in the project, with high ceilings and large windows that provide ample natural light and ventilation. This design choice fosters a connection to the outdoors, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces.

Innovative Material Usage

The project utilizes a combination of wood, steel, glass, and stone. The predominant use of wood not only contributes to a warm aesthetic but also supports sustainability due to its renewability. Steel elements are incorporated for structural stability, creating a robust foundation while maintaining a lightweight design. Glass features are selected to optimize natural light entry, and strategically placed openings enhance the overall livability of the spaces.

The design embraces natural materials, with an emphasis on local sourcing to reduce environmental impact. This choice reflects a commitment to ecological practices while ensuring that the residence harmonizes with its surroundings.

Unique Design Approaches

What sets "Living on the Wall" apart is its innovative implementation of reflective materials on the façade, which allows the structure to blend into its environment. This approach minimizes visual disruption and enhances occupant engagement with the surrounding landscape. In addition, the inclusion of sustainable practices such as solar energy harnessing and rainwater collection showcases a forward-thinking attitude towards ecological responsibility.

The verticality of the structure, combined with the integration of agricultural elements, introduces a unique functional aspect that promotes self-sufficiency. This blend of residential and integrated agricultural spaces exemplifies a modern approach to living that prioritizes both comfort and environmental mindfulness.

The thoughtful design solutions present in "Living on the Wall" illustrate a comprehensive understanding of functionality, resource efficiency, and environmental integration in architectural practice. To further explore the architecture presented in this project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to review the project presentation for deeper insights.

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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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