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Vertical Gardens and Recycled Concrete in a Sustainable Urban Residence

Author:
Aram Shahoyan
Vertical Gardens and Recycled Concrete in a Sustainable Urban Residence

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical gardens and recycled concrete, the design optimizes natural light and air circulation to create a sustainable living space that promotes urban agriculture and enhances resident wellbeing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes vertical farming systems integrated into interior spaces for year-round food production.
02
Features a central atrium that enhances natural light and facilitates airflow throughout the residence.
03
Employs perforated steel elements for shading, creating patterns that enhance aesthetic appeal.
04
Incorporates large glass panels to blur boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments.
05
Uses a bent A-frame design that optimizes structural stability while allowing for expansive living areas.

The architectural design project dubbed "House of the Light" embraces a sustainable and innovative approach that blends ecological considerations with modern living. Situated in an urban environment, the project is an exploration of how architecture can address spatial limitations while promoting a relationship with nature. This residential structure is designed to facilitate enhanced connectivity with its surroundings through the incorporation of natural light and green spaces.

The central concept of the "House of the Light" centers around creating a habitat that prioritizes wellbeing, efficiency, and sustainability. Functionally, the project serves as a domicile that accommodates daily living, recreational activities, and food production, achieving self-sufficiency through vertical farming.

Unique Design Features

One defining characteristic of this architectural design is the integration of vertical farming. This feature utilizes designated areas for cultivating plants within the home, allowing residents to grow vegetables and herbs year-round. The design fosters an innovative approach to urban agriculture, promoting food security and environmental responsibility.

Moreover, the project includes advanced technological elements such as a drone landing zone, which reflects modern logistics and lifestyle trends. This area facilitates convenient deliveries and assists in maintenance, aligning the design with the evolving needs of urban living.

Another significant element is the intentional use of materials. The project employs recycled concrete in its structure, paired with steel elements that offer both durability and aesthetic diversity. Large glass panels enhance the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing natural light to enter and promoting visual continuity with the surrounding environment.

Sustainable Practices and Spatial Organization

The "House of the Light" implements sustainable design principles throughout its layout. The building orientation capitalizes on prevailing winds, creating opportunities for natural ventilation. This promotes air quality and thermal comfort without relying heavily on artificial systems.

The spatial organization within the building is meticulously planned. The ground floor serves as the primary social area, incorporating an open kitchen and living space that connects seamlessly with outdoor areas. The upper levels are reserved for private living quarters, ensuring a balance between shared and personal spaces.

Strategically placed skylights throughout the structure provide abundant natural light, enhancing the overall living experience. The inclusion of green roofs and inner courtyards contributes to both insulation and biodiversity, allowing the project to harmonize with its environment.

The "House of the Light" exemplifies modern architectural strategies aimed at creating functional, sustainable living spaces in urban contexts. For those interested in exploring this innovative project further, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and design elements will provide valuable insights into its holistic approach to contemporary 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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