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Spherical Forms Crafted From Titanium Zinc and Sustainable Wood Nestled In The Nepalese Peaks

Authors:
Alessandro Scipolo, Ciro Chiumenti, Elena Aldà, Rachele Cabrini
Spherical Forms Crafted From Titanium Zinc and Sustainable Wood Nestled In The Nepalese Peaks

Project in-detail

Constructed with spherical forms of titanium zinc and sustainable wood, this communal retreat in the Nepalese mountains offers an energy-efficient haven for guests seeking tranquility and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using titanium zinc for enhanced durability against the harsh mountain climate.
02
Spherical shapes promote natural airflow and optimal sunlight exposure throughout the day.
03
Features integrated water recovery systems to repurpose melted snow for sustainable use.
04
The design encourages community interaction while ensuring privacy through strategic spatial organization.
05
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and energy efficiency.

The architectural project, *sNEwPALs*, is designed as a communal retreat situated in the mountainous region of Nepal, specifically highlighting the Pema and Paldor peaks. This project focuses on creating a refuge that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while promoting sustainability and community interaction. It leverages innovative design strategies to optimize space, functionality, and ecological sensitivity, making it distinct from conventional designs in similar contexts.

The project consists of multiple interconnected spherical forms, each providing versatile communal and private spaces. It embodies an architectural approach that emphasizes fluidity and unification through its design. The arrangement of these spherical elements facilitates a continuous flow of space that encourages interaction among users while maintaining privacy where necessary. Key functional areas within the design include communal dining, kitchen facilities, and accommodations, all strategically configured to maximize views and natural light.

Sustainability is at the core of this architectural endeavor. The choice of materials demonstrates a commitment to ecological responsibility; the project employs wood, titanium zinc cladding, double particle board, MDF, OSB, and various insulating boards. These materials not only enhance the structure's energy efficiency but also minimize its environmental impact. The incorporation of photovoltaic panels ensures energy independence, while water recovery systems facilitate the reuse of snow, showcasing a thoughtful approach to resource management.

Design elements such as circular portholes and smooth transitions between spaces exemplify a unique architectural strategy. These features not only enhance the aesthetic quality of the structures but also allow for natural light to penetrate deeper into the interior, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The organic form of the architecture integrates seamlessly into the landscape, reflecting the surrounding topography and further establishing a connection to the environment.

The project’s unique combination of design innovation and thoughtful material selection sets it apart in the realm of architecture focused on mountainous regions. By emphasizing communal spaces and sustainable practices, *sNEwPALs* represents a progressive model for future architectural endeavors in similar geographical contexts.

For a more detailed analysis of this project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and further insights into its design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation. Understanding the nuances of its architectural framework can provide deeper appreciation for its contribution to the field of architecture and design.

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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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