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Steel Frame Homes Featuring QuadCore Insulation and Community Gardens for Sustainable Living

Author:
Barbara Valverde Filgueiras
Steel Frame Homes Featuring QuadCore Insulation and Community Gardens for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with a steel frame and equipped with QuadCore insulation, the micro-homes integrate renewable energy solutions and communal gardens to provide affordable housing while fostering community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a steel frame for rapid assembly.
02
Incorporates QuadCore insulation for superior energy efficiency.
03
Features communal gardens to promote sustainability and social interaction.
04
Utilizes rainwater harvesting systems for responsible water management.
05
Designed with large operable windows to enhance natural ventilation.

## Overview

The "Micro-Community - Macro Impact" architectural design project addresses critical housing issues faced by individuals in financial distress and those residing in informal settlements. Located in a context where affordable housing is increasingly essential, this initiative proposes modular, eco-friendly home units aimed at promoting social interaction and enhancing living conditions for young professionals. The design prioritizes adaptability to various environments and emphasizes the creation of vibrant communities.

### Spatial Integration and Community Configuration

The micro-homes are strategically designed to maximize spatial efficiency while fostering community engagement. The layout incorporates shared green spaces and communal amenities, which serve to strengthen social ties among residents. This design approach balances the need for privacy with opportunities for collaboration, facilitating a cohesive living environment. Interiors are characterized by an open concept that promotes fluid movement between living, cooking, and relaxation areas, often enhanced by multipurpose furniture to optimize space utilization.

### Material Selection and Sustainability Initiatives

Sustainable material choices form the foundation of the project, ensuring both functionality and environmental responsibility. The use of prefabricated steel frames supports rapid assembly and minimizes construction waste. Kingspan's QuadCore™ insulated roof panels offer high thermal performance, reducing energy consumption. Additional features such as recycled water systems and eco-friendly paints further minimize ecological impact while contributing to resident well-being.

Commitment to sustainability extends to energy efficiency; homes are equipped with photovoltaic panels for grid independence, while rainwater harvesting systems promote effective water management. Waste reduction strategies, including dedicated composting and recycling areas, cultivate ecological awareness within the community. The addition of a community garden reinforces local food production and environmental stewardship, fostering a sense of belonging among residents.

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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
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