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Textured Concrete Pathway Integrating Natural Light and Sacred Space

Author:
Vittorio Falaschi
Textured Concrete Pathway Integrating Natural Light and Sacred Space

Project in-detail

Textured concrete forms seamlessly integrate with natural light to create a contemplative pathway that enhances the sacred experience for visitors at the Sanctuary of La Verna.
5 key facts about this project
01
Textured concrete surfaces mimic the natural rock formations of the surrounding landscape.
02
Strategically positioned openings create dynamic light effects throughout the day.
03
The pathway design encourages visitors to pause and reflect at designated niches.
04
Local ecological integration is emphasized through the use of native vegetation in landscaping.
05
Oblique forms provide a unique visual dialogue with the sacred space of the sanctuary.

The architectural project in question is designed as a pathway leading to the Sanctuary of La Verna, effectively merging natural landscape and built environment. The design focuses on creating a journey for visitors that emphasizes spiritual reflection through the interplay of form, light, and materiality. The site, with its distinct topography and ecological richness, serves as an essential backdrop for this architectural intervention.

Spatially, the project consists of a series of angular concrete structures that appear to rise organically from the terrain. These elements are not merely functional; they serve a dual purpose of guiding visitors while simultaneously providing moments for contemplation. The pathway is strategically arranged to frame key views of the sanctuary and its surrounding landscape, enhancing the connection between visitors and the environment.

Innovative Material Usage

The design employs concrete as the primary material due to its strength and versatility. The finished concrete surfaces incorporate a texture that resonates with the rugged character of the nearby natural landscape. This choice reinforces the project's conceptual intention to blur the boundaries between the natural and the constructed. Additionally, glass elements are integrated to bring light into the interior spaces, creating dynamic light patterns that evolve throughout the day. This feature adds an element of temporality, reminding visitors of the passage of time.

Enhanced Visitor Experience

The unique configuration of the pathways and structures fosters an engaging visitor experience. The design creates sheltered niches that encourage pause and reflection, facilitating deeper engagement with the surrounding environment. Each architectural element is positioned to evoke specific emotional responses, promoting a sense of tranquility and contemplation.

Moreover, the landscaping has been carefully curated, incorporating native vegetation that supports local ecology while enhancing visual aesthetics. The interplay of natural elements with the architectural forms invites visitors to immerse themselves in a holistic experience that promotes connection with nature and spirituality.

For those interested in a more comprehensive understanding of this architectural project, it is recommended to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs available. Delving into the architectural ideas represented in this project will provide deeper insights into its thoughtful execution and unique approach to design.

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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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