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Thermal Comfort Through Cantilevered Structures and Eco-Friendly Materials in Modular Living

Author:
Gadi Politi
Thermal Comfort Through Cantilevered Structures and Eco-Friendly Materials in Modular Living

Project in-detail

Cantilevered structures and thermo-solar vacuum tubes enhance thermal efficiency in a modular living environment designed for adaptability and resource conservation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cantilevered upper levels create shaded outdoor spaces, enhancing thermal comfort in a desert climate.
02
Thermo-solar vacuum tubes provide renewable energy, integrating sustainability into the design.
03
Modular units allow for adaptable configurations based on user requirements and preferences.
04
Extensive use of glass fosters a continuous visual connection with the surrounding environment.
05
Native plant landscaping complements the structure, promoting local biodiversity and ecological harmony.

The Modular Urban Oasis is an architectural project that exemplifies the principles of modern sustainable living. Its modular design caters to residential needs while incorporating innovative solutions for climate responsiveness and resource management. The project emphasizes flexibility and adaptability, allowing for a variety of configurations based on user requirements. This approach supports both individual preferences and broader community dynamics in urban settings.

Sustainability is a core element of this design, featuring an array of environmental technologies. The integration of thermo-solar vacuum tubes enables effective harnessing of solar energy, aligning the structure with contemporary demands for energy-efficient living. Water conservation technologies are also included, facilitating efficient resource management in an arid climate.

The layout consists of a central linear atrium that organizes the surrounding spaces while ensuring ample natural light penetrates the project. This atrium acts as a circulatory spine, promoting interaction among residents while delineating public and private spaces. By emphasizing transparency through extensive use of glass, the design fosters a connection to the environment, reinforcing the project's sustainable ethos.

Unique Design Approaches

The Modular Urban Oasis distinguishes itself through several notable design approaches. The use of cantilevered structures not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also creates shaded outdoor areas that improve thermal comfort. This feature is particularly relevant in a desert climate where sun exposure is a constant factor.

Additionally, the architectural design draws on modularity as a central principle. Individual modules can be combined or expanded according to specific needs, which allows for future adaptability. This flexibility caters to changing family requirements over time, making the design relevant across various life stages and demographics.

Landscaping is inherently linked to the design, where native plant species are integrated to create supportive outdoor environments. This approach promotes biodiversity and reduces maintenance requirements, further aligning with the sustainability goals of the project. The design minimizes ecological impact while enhancing the overall livability of the space.

Architectural Integration and Functionality

The project’s structural materiality comprises reinforced concrete, glass, and wood, chosen for their durability and aesthetic qualities. Reinforced concrete forms the backbone of the structure, providing significant strength. Glass elements promote transparency, creating visual continuity with the surroundings. Wood is employed in shade devices, offering warmth to the design and guiding occupants through the spaces.

Functional areas are carefully organized to optimize living conditions and facilitate social interaction. The distinct separation and articulation of spaces within the modular framework allow residents to experience both communal and private environments. Such design consideration enhances quality of life while supporting community engagement.

For a deeper understanding of the Modular Urban Oasis, interested readers are encouraged to explore architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs provided in the project presentation. Insight into these elements will offer a comprehensive view of the innovative architectural ideas embedded within this project.

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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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