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Reflective Glass and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Immersive Ecological Haven

Authors:
Julie Wu, Guillermo Salazar
Reflective Glass and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Immersive Ecological Haven

Project in-detail

Utilizing reflective glass and cross-laminated timber, the design offers a sustainable framework that invites visitors to engage with the surrounding environment while providing essential accommodations for exploration and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective glass façades enhance natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber construction provides superior sustainability and structural integrity.
03
Charred wooden shingles offer both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
04
Uniquely designed loft spaces facilitate optimal sky observation for guests.
05
Mobile units allow flexible exploration of the wilderness while ensuring comfort.

The Kaleidoscope architectural project presents a cohesive design that emphasizes interaction with the natural environment. Nestled in a geographically distinctive location, the project effectively integrates multiple structures, including a visitor center, guest room clusters, and mobile units, fostering a unique relationship between architecture and its surrounding landscape. The design promotes sustainability and community connection, providing visitors with a deep appreciation of the area’s natural beauty and climatic phenomena.

Prominent structural components include the visitor center, which serves as the focal point for orientation and engagement. Its design highlights spacious layouts that facilitate interaction while allowing for individual experiences. Large glass facades maximize natural light, offering unobstructed views of the scenery, which is vital for the overall ambiance of the locale. The visitor center also incorporates interactive installations that connect guests with environmental aspects, enhancing educational opportunities related to local ecology.

The guest room clusters are strategically arranged to encourage socialization while maintaining privacy. Each unit is designed to maximize natural light and includes loft spaces for sky observation. This feature not only fosters a connection with the cosmos but also enhances guest experiences during celestial events. The clusters utilize sustainable materials, such as locally sourced wood and energy-efficient glass, reinforcing the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

The mobile units, known as Geimskip, represent an innovative design approach that allows guests to immerse themselves in the site’s natural beauty. Their lightweight structure facilitates mobility, enabling users to relocate and explore different visual perspectives within the wilderness. The combination of insulated glass and reflective exteriors aids energy efficiency while visually blending with the surrounding landscape.

An important aspect of the Kaleidoscope project is its materiality. The architectural design employs materials such as sustainable wood, metal framing, and solar panels. These choices not only define the aesthetic but also contribute to the project's long-term sustainability. The integration of local materials strengthens the connection to the site and reflects regional building traditions.

Kaleidoscope differentiates itself from other contemporary architectural projects through its thoughtful design strategies that prioritize an immersive experience with nature. The incorporation of reflective surfaces, open communal spaces, and carefully considered private accommodations elevates the project’s architectural narrative. Through these design elements, visitors are encouraged to engage meaningfully with the environment, fostering a sense of belonging and exploration.

For a closer examination of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, explore the available presentation materials to gain further insights into the innovative architectural ideas that underpin the Kaleidoscope 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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