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Textile Canopy and Solar Panels Define Sustainable Transit Hub Design

Author:
Dalia F M Al Madhoun
Textile Canopy and Solar Panels Define Sustainable Transit Hub Design

Project in-detail

The integration of textile canopies and small solar panels creates a sustainable transit hub that seamlessly connects urban spaces while enhancing passenger experience through innovative design and efficient flow.
5 key facts about this project
01
Textile canopies provide adaptive shading and ventilation integrated into the station's design.
02
Small solar panels are embedded in the awnings, promoting energy efficiency.
03
The fluid architectural form draws inspiration from the motion of a running horse.
04
Multiple access points ensure smooth pedestrian flow and urban connectivity.
05
The extensive use of glass enhances natural light while maintaining visual continuity with the surroundings.

### Overview

Located in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the Double Track Monorail Station serves as a transportation hub designed to reflect the themes of movement and heritage. The concept draws inspiration from the dynamics and aesthetics of a running horse, which informs both the architectural form and functional arrangement. This design positions the station as a contemporary element within Jeddah's urban landscape, enhancing both its utility and visual identity.

### Architectural Expression

The station's design embodies a fluid, organic silhouette that evolves as one moves around it. This form, characterized by a gently arched roof and undulating surfaces, symbolizes speed and grace. The spatial organization facilitates a direct connection between transport services and urban experiences, providing a vibrant plaza at the ground level that welcomes pedestrians and seamlessly integrates with surrounding public spaces. Transparent materials, particularly glass, are extensively utilized on the upper floors to foster interaction between the interior and exterior environments, ensuring that the station is a central part of urban life rather than a mere transit point.

### Material Strategy and Sustainability

A thoughtful selection of materials anchors the structure within its context while promoting sustainability. Key features include textile awnings that offer shade and ventilation, small solar panels integrated into these awnings to harness renewable energy, and locally sourced textile materials that decrease transportation impact. The combination of reinforced concrete and glass enhances durability and allows natural light to permeate interior areas. These sustainable practices not only contribute to reducing the building's carbon footprint but also ensure that the station remains functional and comfortable for users throughout varying weather conditions.

The design incorporates three distinct access points—main entry, underground pathways, and a bridge connecting to the shoreline—facilitating urban connectivity. The careful planning of vertical circulation routes supports efficient movement during peak times, reinforcing the station's role in the city's transport network while offering expansive views of the surrounding area.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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