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Sustainable Living Defined Through Vertical Timber Cladding and Green Roof Integration

Author:
Albyn Hope Van Wyk
Sustainable Living Defined Through Vertical Timber Cladding and Green Roof Integration

Project in-detail

Vertical timber cladding and a green roof create a seamless blend of natural aesthetics and efficient living in a compact micro-home designed for urban sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes vertical timber cladding for enhanced thermal performance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates a green roof for biodiversity and natural insulation.
03
Designed as a prefabricated unit for efficient construction and adaptability.
04
Strategically placed windows maximize natural light and external views.
05
Features multi-functional spaces that promote social interaction among residents.

Gan Eden is a micro-home architectural design project situated in Manchester, UK. This project addresses the pressing need for affordable housing in urban settings while emphasizing sustainability and community integration. The design merges living spaces with natural environments, creating a dwelling that supports both ecological goals and occupant well-being. Gan Eden aims to enhance the quality of urban life by promoting greener living and social connectivity.

Community-Focused Design Approach The architecture prioritizes social interaction through a layout that encourages residents to engage with one another. The micro-home is designed to function not only as an individual residence but also as a part of a larger community framework. Open-plan spaces foster communication and collaboration among residents, while shared outdoor areas serve as communal gathering points. This design promotes relationships among occupants and incorporates features designed for shared use, thus enhancing community cohesion.

Sustainable Materiality and Efficient Systems Gan Eden's unique use of materials sets it apart from typical residential projects. The exterior is clad in vertical timber, offering aesthetic warmth while being a renewable resource. Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass is used for windows and doors, optimizing thermal performance and reducing energy consumption. The inclusion of a green roof contributes to local biodiversity while offering insulation benefits. This focus on sustainable construction materials ensures minimal environmental impact throughout the life of the building.

Innovative Spatial Design The spatial arrangement within Gan Eden reflects a careful consideration of practical living. The layout is designed with strategically placed windows to maximize natural light and capture views of the surrounding landscape. Bedrooms offer privacy and comfort while facing picturesque vistas, and communal dining areas are oriented to facilitate interaction among occupants. The compact design does not compromise functionality, allowing the micro-home to operate efficiently while providing a high quality of life for its residents.

Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs of Gan Eden will provide further insights into its innovative approaches. For a comprehensive understanding of the project's architectural ideas and their implications for future housing solutions, detailed architectural documentation is available for review.

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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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