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Textured Concrete And Stone-Carved Jali Integrate Within A Sustainable Desert Family Home

Authors:
Shaikh Asjad Ahmed, Abhijit Prasanth
Textured Concrete And Stone-Carved Jali Integrate Within A Sustainable Desert Family Home

Project in-detail

Combining textured concrete with intricately designed stone-carved Jali screens, the residence seamlessly integrates passive cooling techniques within a sustainable family home in a desert landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional stone-carved Jali screens for natural light and privacy.
02
Features a windcatcher for passive cooling, enhancing thermal comfort.
03
Uses textured concrete for exterior durability and environmental integration.
04
Includes communal outdoor Majlis, promoting social interaction.
05
Designed with solar panels to support energy efficiency and sustainability.

The architectural design project "Home Amongst the Dunes" represents a contemporary residence that merges traditional Emirati characteristics with modern design principles. Nestled in a desert landscape, the project aims to create an intimate living space that respects and reflects its cultural context. The primary function of the residence is to serve as a family home, fostering social interactions while providing privacy and comfort for residents.

The architectural design is characterized by a dynamic form featuring fluid lines and open spaces. The layout is organized around a service block that encapsulates essential facilities while maintaining visual coherence with the living areas. This service block houses functional spaces such as a kitchen, pantry, and maid’s quarters, ensuring a clear separation between private and communal zones. The integration of the windcatcher serves as a passive cooling system, enhancing air circulation throughout the home and minimizing energy consumption.

The design also emphasizes connectivity to the outdoors, with pocket gardens and an outdoor Majlis extending the living space and promoting engagement with the natural environment. Each area is crafted to optimize comfort and usability for family gatherings and daily activities.

Unique Design Approaches

"Home Amongst the Dunes" distinguishes itself through its thoughtful incorporation of traditional elements within a modern framework. The inclusion of stone-carved Jali screens not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also allows for natural light while safeguarding privacy. The exterior utilizes textured concrete for a durable finish, blending seamlessly with the sandy landscape. Additionally, the use of sandstone breeze blocks contributes to the facade's visual richness and reflects the regional architectural vernacular.

Sustainability is central to the project's design philosophy. The integration of solar panels aligns with eco-friendly practices, demonstrating a commitment to renewable energy. This approach, combined with passive cooling solutions, underscores the project's focus on energy efficiency.

Material Selection and Detailing

The material palette of "Home Amongst the Dunes" is carefully curated to support its design intentions. Textured concrete and marble provide both structural integrity and visual sophistication. Bronze framing introduces a modern contrast, while fabric shades offer practical solutions for sun protection in outdoor areas.

Attention to detail is evident in the architectural layouts, including the thoughtful spatial arrangements that facilitate family interaction and private retreat. Architectural sections and plans reveal a meticulous approach to planning, ensuring functionality without compromising aesthetic values.

For a comprehensive understanding of this project’s architectural nuances, consider exploring the architectural plans and sections that provide deeper insights into its design strategies and spatial organization. The intricate balance of traditional and modern elements makes "Home Amongst the Dunes" a valuable study in contemporary architecture.

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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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