Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Sandstone Walls and Palm Frond Roofs in a Sustainable Family Dwelling

Authors:
Alberto Pizzoli, Gregorio Pecorelli, Andrea Bellincampi
Sandstone Walls and Palm Frond Roofs in a Sustainable Family Dwelling

Project in-detail

Constructed with locally sourced sandstone walls and a palm frond roof, this sustainable family dwelling emphasizes natural cooling and cultural heritage within a modern living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced sandstone to enhance thermal efficiency.
02
Incorporates a traditional palm frond roof for natural insulation and aesthetics.
03
Features a central courtyard designed for passive cooling and social interaction.
04
Utilizes a wind tower to promote natural ventilation throughout the dwelling.
05
Emphasizes a commitment to cultural heritage through modern design principles.

The architectural project under analysis represents a contemporary reinterpretation of traditional Emirati housing, focusing on sustainability and cultural relevance. It situates itself within the context of the United Arab Emirates, emphasizing a design that reflects local customs and environmental conditions. The primary function of the building is to provide a family dwelling that facilitates both private and communal living, addressing the unique social structure of Emirati society.

The project is organized around a central courtyard, which acts as the heart of the home. This outdoor space encourages interaction among family members while providing essential cooling through natural ventilation. The layout includes various critical areas, such as living spaces, service zones, and bedrooms, oriented to maximize privacy and communal accessibility.

Unique design approaches in this project are evident in its material selection and structural elements. The use of locally sourced materials like sandstone and clay fulfills both aesthetic and performance requirements, promoting thermal efficiency. Additionally, the incorporation of a wind tower serves as a passive cooling method, a nod to traditional architecture while utilizing modern engineering principles.

The staggered massing of the building reduces the visual weight of the structure while creating dynamic shadow patterns throughout the day. The integration of green voids not only enhances the natural environment but also provides spaces for relaxation and connects residents to nature.

Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will yield a more comprehensive understanding of how these elements come together in this project. For those interested in contemporary architectural ideas that respect cultural traditions while embracing sustainability, further investigation into this project will offer valuable insights.

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