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Textured Stone Forms Harmonizing With Natural Light in a Desert Habitat

Authors:
Anoud Amer Nayef Alassaf, Marwa Imad Fawzi Ihmoud, Sham Ali Mohammad Aldiqs
Textured Stone Forms Harmonizing With Natural Light in a Desert Habitat

Project in-detail

Utilizing Fibonacci-inspired forms and textured stone to create a seamless connection with the Wadi Rum landscape, the structure serves as a residential space that encourages exploration and reflection amidst a rich cultural narrative.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fibonacci sequences shape the overall form, enhancing harmony with the landscape.
02
Natural stone façade integrates seamlessly with the surrounding geology.
03
Large openings facilitate dynamic light patterns throughout the day.
04
Unique subterranean spaces create a climate-responsive living environment.
05
Textured finishes evoke the desert terrain, enhancing tactile engagement.

The architectural project "Home of Shadow" is located in Wadi Rum, a region noted for its dramatic rock formations and rich cultural narrative. The design embodies the interaction between human experience and mythical storytelling, creating a habitat that serves both as living quarters and a space for introspection. It merges architectural functionality with conceptual depth, representing a blend of traditional elements and innovative constructions that reflect the surrounding landscape.

Spatially, the project is organized into various interconnected zones that promote both communal activities and solitude. The layout encourages movement throughout the home, with fluid transitions between spaces facilitated by gentle ramps and sweeping staircases. Rooms are oriented to maximize views and natural light, ensuring a strong connection to the external environment. The strategic placement of large openings allows for light and shadow to play across the interior, enhancing the sensory experience of the inhabitants.

Unique Design Approaches The project employs the Fibonacci sequence as a basis for its morphological development, creating forms that resonate with natural growth patterns observed in the landscape. This design approach adds a layer of organic quality to the architecture, setting it apart from conventional rectangular space layouts. The home's integration with its setting aims to evoke a sense of harmony with nature, reinforcing the narrative of coexistence between man and the supernatural.

Materiality plays a key role in the project’s identity. Using reinforced concrete and natural stone, the structure is anchored in its environment while ensuring durability. Glass elements are employed to enhance transparency and encourage an uninterrupted flow between the interior spaces and the scenic vistas outside. Textured finishes are also utilized to echo the rugged terrain, further bridging the gap between the built environment and its natural counterpart.

Exploration of Architectural Ideas The architectural design challenges typical norms by presenting a dwelling that respects the cultural significance of the region’s folklore. It invites occupants and visitors alike to engage with the space in a reflective manner, facilitating narratives that intertwine personal and collective myths. Through its innovative layout and carefully chosen materials, "Home of Shadow" becomes a continuous dialogue of light, texture, and spatial experience, paving the way for future architectural explorations in sensitive locations.

For a more in-depth understanding of the project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs, readers are encouraged to review the project's comprehensive presentation. This allows for a deeper appreciation of the unique ideas that have shaped "Home of Shadow."

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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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