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Thermal Mass and Wind-Catchers in Sustainable Coastal Housing

Authors:
Chenghui Nan, Lin Cui
Thermal Mass and Wind-Catchers in Sustainable Coastal Housing

Project in-detail

Incorporating wind-catchers and utilizing thermal mass, this coastal housing solution effectively enhances natural ventilation while providing a sustainable living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional wind-catchers for enhanced air circulation.
02
Utilizes thermal mass for natural temperature regulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design for structural efficiency.
04
Constructed with durable concrete and expansive glass elements.
05
Integrates rounded forms to improve aesthetic cohesion with the coastal environment.

The Wind Waker is an architectural project located near Jumeirah Bay Beach in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It seamlessly integrates traditional architectural elements from two cultures—Yao Dong from Chinese architecture and Malqaf from Arabian architecture—resulting in a design that is both functionally responsive and culturally resonant. This project emphasizes sustainability through its architectural strategies, addressing the environmental demands of its coastal location while fostering a dialogue between historic and contemporary design practices.

Cultural Integration in Design The design represents an innovative synthesis between the thermal comfort provided by Yao Dong and the passive cooling strategy of the Malqaf tower. The rounded forms of the structure not only create visual fluidity but also enhance the efficiency of natural ventilation. The building's design is intentional in its cultural references, symbolizing a connection between the past and present. This approach makes it unique in its ability to meld two architectural philosophies into a single cohesive form, promoting an understanding of how regional climates can influence design decisions.

Structural and Material Considerations The Wind Waker employs a variety of materials that support its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Concrete serves as the primary material, providing durability and strength required for the coastal environment. Expansive glass elements are utilized to maximize natural light and views, conveying a strong connection to the surrounding beach. Interior spaces are enhanced by hardwood and ceramic finishes, reflecting a focus on comfort and functionality. The architectural details facilitate a living environment that is not only pleasing to the eye but also practical for daily use.

Sustainable Design Features The architectural design incorporates several sustainable features that cater to the local climate. Wind-catchers, a hallmark of Arabian architecture, are strategically positioned to capture and direct cooling breezes into living spaces, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. Additionally, the layout promotes cross-ventilation, which further aids in regulating indoor temperatures. This consideration for environmental conditions exemplifies a commitment to creating a building that is responsible and responsive to its context.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Wind Waker project, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed design elements, we encourage further exploration of its presentation. Acquainting oneself with the architectural designs and ideas will provide deeper insights into the innovative approaches that define 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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