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Sustainable Living Through 3D Printed Recycled Materials Along Irrigation Canals

Authors:
Darshan Parikh, Abhijeet Parikh, Jonathan Chu
Sustainable Living Through 3D Printed Recycled Materials Along Irrigation Canals

Project in-detail

Constructed from 3D printed recycled materials, this modular housing solution integrates seamlessly with irrigation canals to support sustainable living in California's water-scarce regions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units are designed for easy transport and relocation along irrigation canals.
02
The housing is constructed using 3D printed recycled materials, minimizing waste.
03
Each unit features solar panels integrated into the roof design for energy efficiency.
04
Wooden screens provide customizable privacy while allowing natural ventilation.
05
The project actively reduces water evaporation from adjacent irrigation canals.

Crosser is an architectural design project situated in irrigation-rich areas of California, responding to the dual challenges of housing shortages and environmental sustainability. The project is conceived around modular housing units that are strategically aligned with existing irrigation canals. This arrangement maximizes land use while promoting a community-oriented living environment. By leveraging advanced construction techniques, such as 3D printing with recycled materials, Crosser aims to deliver affordable housing solutions that are adaptable and eco-friendly.

Modular Housing Design The architectural design of Crosser is rooted in a modular approach, which is integral to its flexibility and sustainability. Each unit is designed to be easily transportable, facilitating relocation as needed. The layout promotes interaction among residents by clustering units along the canals, encouraging the formation of community ties. Additionally, the incorporation of movable elements within each unit allows for personal customization, addressing the diverse needs of residents regarding privacy and space usage.

The modular units feature a contemporary aesthetic characterized by large openings that enhance natural lighting and ventilation. These design choices contribute to a reduced dependency on artificial lighting and climate control systems, underscoring the project's commitment to energy efficiency.

Sustainable Material Use Crosser distinguishes itself through its materials and construction methodologies. The primary structural element is 3D-printed using recycled materials, which minimizes waste and environmental impact during construction. The roof design supports the installation of solar panels, providing renewable energy and further contributing to the sustainability of the living environment.

Moreover, the use of natural wood screens not only offers privacy but also integrates seamlessly with the outdoor setting. This focus on sustainable materiality reflects the project's commitment to ecological considerations while ensuring functional living spaces that respect the surrounding landscape.

Integration with Local Context By positioning these modular units adjacent to irrigation canals, Crosser effectively addresses water conservation concerns in a climate-conscious manner. The units provide coverage over the canals, significantly reducing evaporation rates. This design decision fosters a balanced relationship between human habitation and agriculture, promoting a sustainable ecosystem that supports both social and environmental objectives.

Interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for further details. Architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs offer deeper insights into the innovative ideas that define Crosser. This project serves as a model for future housing developments focused on adaptability, sustainability, and community engagement.

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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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