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Sustainable Clay and Riverstone Structures Shaping Community Life in the Himalayas

Authors:
Calin Segal, Attali Tiffany, Gerolamo Gnecchi, Hicham Filali
Sustainable Clay and Riverstone Structures Shaping Community Life in the Himalayas

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced riverstone and clay, the design integrates tiered structures that promote community interaction while supporting sustainable agricultural practices in the Himalayan environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes tiered structures inspired by traditional pagodas to blend with the Himalayan landscape.
02
Incorporates locally sourced riverstone and clay for sustainable building practices.
03
Features hydroponic systems that reduce water usage and promote local food production.
04
Includes renewable energy sources, such as wind turbines, to support self-sufficiency.
05
Designed as a communal hub to enhance interaction between residents and visitors.

The architectural project Pagodic Proliferation is situated within the context of the Himalayan region, designed to foster community interaction while providing sustainable living conditions. This project integrates architectural design with local cultural themes, employing a pagoda-inspired form that resonates with the area's traditional aesthetics. The function of this project encompasses residential, communal, and agricultural spaces, reflecting a commitment to self-sufficiency and ecological sustainability.

The architectural layout is organized around a central communal unit, serving as the heart of the project. This nucleus features multi-functional areas designed for living, dining, and community gatherings, ensuring that residents and visitors engage regularly. Surrounding this hub are private living units that maintain individual privacy while still promoting social interaction. The project also incorporates agricultural units dedicated to hydroponic farming, emphasizing sustainable practices that utilize minimal resources.

The design reflects a unique approach by intertwining traditional architectural elements with modern techniques. The tiered structure of the pagoda form not only provides visual interest but also functions efficiently within the alpine environment, managing daylight and reducing heat loss.

Innovative Material Usage

A noteworthy aspect of the Pagodic Proliferation project is its careful selection of materials, which prioritize local sourcing and environmental compatibility. The design employs stones collected from nearby riverbeds for structural integrity, complemented by prefabricated steel elements that expedite construction processes. Clay walls enhance thermal comfort while ensuring a connection to local building traditions. Additionally, the incorporation of hydroponic systems supports sustainable food production, demonstrating an integrated approach to architecture that addresses both human needs and environmental concerns.

This project distinguishes itself through its integration of renewable energy solutions, including wind turbines that harness natural resources to power the facilities. The design's focus on creating a self-sufficient ecosystem equates to a model for future sustainable architecture, particularly in remote areas.

Architectural Synergy and Community Engagement

The architecture of Pagodic Proliferation is engineered to enhance community cohesion. The spatial design encourages interaction among residents and visitors, facilitating a cultural exchange that is essential for community development. This synthesis of private and public spaces fosters a sense of belonging and promotes shared experiences, vital in a region where community ties can significantly influence quality of life.

In summary, the Pagodic Proliferation project offers an insightful exploration of architectural design that prioritizes sustainable living and community interaction. For further exploration of this project, interested readers are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain deeper insights into the innovative ideas embedded in this architectural endeavor.

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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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