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Vegetated Roof Garden and Barjeel Integration in Sustainable Prefabricated Housing

Authors:
David Cameron Thompson, Rhiannon Chloe Williams, Leah Alwyn Charlton
Vegetated Roof Garden and Barjeel Integration in Sustainable Prefabricated Housing

Project in-detail

Incorporating a vegetated roof garden and a traditional Barjeel, this sustainably designed prefabricated residence promotes natural ventilation and energy efficiency while providing a cohesive family living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a Barjeel for natural cooling and ventilation.
02
Utilizes prefabricated cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
04
Includes a vegetated roof garden to promote local biodiversity.
05
Designed with modular components for future adaptability.

The architectural design project is situated in the United Arab Emirates and reflects a contemporary approach to Emirati residential architecture. It combines traditional elements with modern techniques to create a functional living space that caters to climatic conditions and the cultural context of the region. The project emphasizes communal living while respecting individual privacy, essential in a family-oriented culture.

The design features a well-defined spatial configuration with strategically organized areas including a living room, dining space, kitchen, and specialized quarters. The incorporation of traditional cultural features such as the Barjeel (Wind Tower), Cooling Courtyard, and Mashrabiya enhances both functionality and aesthetic appeal. These elements not only pay homage to Emirati heritage but also leverage passive cooling and natural ventilation principles.

Innovative material choices such as Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS) enable efficient construction and energy efficiency. The project also includes a vegetated roof garden and solar panels, maximizing sustainability through renewable energy generation and thermal insulation.

Integration of Sustainable Architectural Features The project stands out due to its unique blend of traditional architectural components and modern sustainability practices. The Barjeel serves both as a ventilation strategy and as an aesthetic feature, while the Cooling Courtyard promotes community interaction and provides natural cooling spaces. The careful application of modern materials allows for enhanced adaptability, enabling future modifications as family needs evolve. This adaptability reflects a deeper understanding of contemporary living dynamics while maintaining a connection to cultural roots.

Focus on Climate-Responsive Design The architecture strategically addresses the harsh climatic conditions of the UAE. By employing passive design techniques and renewable energy systems, the project reduces reliance on conventional energy sources. The use of reflective pools aids in cooling, complementing the overarching design goals of environmental responsibility. Additionally, the modular setup allows for efficient construction and reduced material waste, highlighting the project's commitment to sustainable practices.

For a comprehensive understanding of the project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural details presented. These elements provide greater insights into how the design effectively addresses functionality, sustainability, and cultural significance, making this project a noteworthy example of modern Emirati architecture.

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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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