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Repurposed Concrete and Charred Wood Form a Community Hub Embracing Local Engagement

Author:
Chan Tak chak
Repurposed Concrete and Charred Wood Form a Community Hub Embracing Local Engagement

Project in-detail

Repurposed concrete and charred wood unite to create a multifunctional community hub that fosters local engagement and resource sharing in the heart of Iceland's Myvatn region.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposed concrete is utilized for structural elements, integrating sustainability into the design.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a unique aesthetic linked to local building traditions.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation, contributing to energy efficiency.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed, reflecting modern construction techniques while minimizing environmental impact.
05
Community spaces are designed for adaptability, allowing various functions to support local engagement and resource sharing.

The Berghub project is situated in the Myvatn region of Iceland and serves as a community house designed to facilitate interactions among residents and visitors. Its architectural design emphasizes sustainability through the principles of the circular economy, featuring spaces for social gatherings, workshops, and resource exchanges. This building is intended as a multifunctional hub that supports local engagement and environmental stewardship.

The Berghub represents a thoughtful integration of architecture and nature, drawing inspiration from the unique landscape of Iceland, particularly its icebergs. The design reflects organic forms that mimic the natural environment, focusing on both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Each area within the building is tailored to meet various community needs while remaining adaptable for different activities, enhancing user experience and interaction.

Unique Design Approaches The architectural approach taken in the Berghub project prioritizes sustainability and contextual relevance. The use of irregular forms is a direct response to the shapes found in icebergs, establishing a strong connection with the landscape. The configuration of spaces is carefully planned to optimize natural light and ventilation while considering prevailing wind patterns, which helps maintain thermal comfort throughout the seasons.

Materials play a crucial role in the design, with a focus on sustainability. The project incorporates concrete for structural integrity, wood for warmth in communal spaces, and recycled materials to minimize waste. This mindful selection of resources not only fulfills functional requirements but also aligns with the project's ethos of leveraging local materials in sustainable ways.

Architectural Elements and Details The building consists of various spaces including community rooms, workshops, and areas for informal gatherings. Each space is designed to promote versatility and social interaction, reflecting the community's collaborative spirit. Architectural details such as sloped roofs and extensive glazing ensure that internal environments are well-lit and conducive to social activity. The use of reinforced steel ensures durability and structural safety, while the integration of greenhouses illustrates the project’s commitment to ecological practices.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the Berghub project, including its architectural plans and sections, interested readers are encouraged to explore the project's presentation further. Delve into the architectural designs and ideas that illustrate the innovative solutions employed throughout this community-focused 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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