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Sustainable Living Through Sun-Dried Mud and Natural Palm Fronds in a Versatile Dwelling

Author:
Giorgio Castellano
Sustainable Living Through Sun-Dried Mud and Natural Palm Fronds in a Versatile Dwelling

Project in-detail

Constructed with sun-dried mud and woven palm fronds, the design utilizes local materials to create a flexible living space that fosters community interaction while prioritizing environmental sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using traditional sun-dried mud, enhancing thermal mass and insulation.
02
Features woven palm fronds for climate control and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates a courtyard garden that promotes community interaction.
04
Utilizes an off-grid system for energy self-sufficiency.
05
Adaptable spaces designed for flexible usage by residents.

The "House of the Future" in Dubai represents a significant architectural project that integrates sustainability with cultural heritage. This design focuses on creating a versatile living space that adapts to the evolving needs of its occupants while minimizing environmental impact. The project emphasizes a connection to the surrounding landscape, promoting social interactions within the community context.

The primary function of the House of the Future is to provide a self-sustaining residential environment that can support diverse activities ranging from family living to communal engagements. The design layout includes various interconnected spaces designed for versatility. This allows residents to adjust the functionalities based on their preferences and requirements. Central to the project is a courtyard garden, which serves as an intimate space for gatherings and relaxation, enhancing social connectivity.

Materiality serves as a cornerstone of this project. The use of sun-dried mud, woven palm fronds, lime and cement, black solar panels, and permeable paving illustrates a commitment to sustainability and local craftsmanship. These materials not only uphold traditional building techniques but also contribute to effective energy management through natural insulation and renewable energy sources.

Innovation in this project arises from unique design approaches that prioritize adaptability and sustainability. The structure incorporates a porous environment, facilitating seamless movement and fluidity between spaces. The integration of an off-grid system allows the building to operate independently from conventional power sources, thus emphasizing energy efficiency. Furthermore, the structured approach to natural ventilation and shading reinforces the optical and thermal comfort of the living spaces.

The versatility presented in the layout is a crucial differentiator. The House of the Future showcases adaptive spaces that can evolve alongside community growth. These evolving spaces are crucial in addressing changing lifestyles without necessitating significant renovations. The architectural plans reveal a fluid conceptual framework that balances privacy and openness, ensuring that all areas can be utilized optimally.

The "House of the Future" exemplifies a thoughtful blend of architectural design principles. It serves as a model for future residential projects by prioritizing sustainable solutions and cultural integration. For further exploration of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed design elements, readers are encouraged to examine the comprehensive project presentation.

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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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