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Triangular Skylights and Concrete Harmony in a Sustainable Retreat

Author:
Ching Chi Su
Triangular Skylights and Concrete Harmony in a Sustainable Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing triangular skylights and a concrete structure, the design seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, creating a sustainable retreat that emphasizes both artistic expression and tranquil living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes triangular skylights for enhanced natural lighting.
02
Incorporates locally sourced materials to reduce environmental impact.
03
Features a blend of concrete and timber for structural integrity.
04
Includes an integrated art gallery to promote cultural expression.
05
Design emphasizes passive solar heating for energy efficiency.

The Sanyi Secular Retreat is a residential architectural project located in Sanyi Township, Miaoli County, Taiwan. Spanning an area of 310 square meters, the retreat is designed to create a harmonious relationship between its inhabitants and the surrounding landscape. This project symbolizes a focused effort to blend contemporary living with sustainable architecture, emphasizing a strong connection with nature.

The retreat serves as a personal sanctuary, encouraging contemplation and relaxation. It is designed to accommodate both daily living and creative endeavors, with dedicated spaces for art and cultural activities. The overall structure promotes interaction with the environment while maintaining functional residential aspects.

Unique Proximity to Nature and Cultural Heritage

The Sanyi Secular Retreat differentiates itself through its careful consideration of local context and cultural influences. The architecture focuses heavily on integrating natural elements and landscape features, which serve as extensions of the living environment. The use of materials such as concrete, glass, wood, and stone reflects a commitment to sustainability while enhancing the aesthetic quality of the property.

Large glass windows and triangular skylights provide ample natural light, facilitating a seamless indoor-outdoor transition. These design choices not only enhance the visual appeal but also improve thermal and energy performance, demonstrating an innovative approach to environmental consciousness.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

The architectural layout of the retreat is organized to balance privacy with communal space. Key components include a living area that merges with an art gallery, creating a versatile space for creativity and socialization. Service areas are strategically placed to ensure functionality without compromising the overall design unity. Outdoor features such as a fireplace and landscaped gardens create additional areas for leisure and engagement with nature.

The thoughtful arrangement of spaces prioritizes user experience, fostering a sense of comfort and connection to the landscape. This project embodies a modern interpretation of traditional living while addressing contemporary architectural challenges.

For a deeper understanding of the Sanyi Secular Retreat, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs to uncover the project’s intricate details and innovative ideas. An examination of these elements will provide insight into how this project exemplifies a sensitive approach to architecture that prioritizes both environmental sustainability and functional living.

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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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