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Weathering Steel and Timber Extension Merging Cultural Heritage with Environmental Context

Authors:
Sergio Bianchi, Sean Moyano, Hilal Yilmaz, Fiorella Campodonico Roy
Weathering Steel and Timber Extension Merging Cultural Heritage with Environmental Context

Project in-detail

Utilizing weathering steel and glued-laminated timber, the design harmonizes with its natural surroundings while serving as an educational and interactive community lookout point.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes weathering steel for a facade that develops a unique patina over time.
02
Incorporates glued-laminated timber to achieve sustainability and local sourcing.
03
Features elevated observation platforms to offer panoramic views of the landscape.
04
Design inspired by the silhouette of a buffalo, connecting cultural heritage to form.
05
Includes perforated metal panels that enhance ventilation while adding aesthetic interest.

The Buffalo Nickel Lookout Point is an architectural project located in South Dakota, designed to celebrate the cultural significance of the American Buffalo while providing an interactive community space. This facility creates opportunities for observation and engagement with the vast landscapes surrounding it. As a multifunctional structure, the lookout point serves both recreational and educational purposes, encouraging visitors to explore and reflect on the historical context of the region's indigenous cultures.

Environmental integration is a fundamental aspect of the design. The structure utilizes materials that resonate with the natural environment, reinforcing its connection to the site. The building form is inspired by the silhouette of a buffalo, integrating geological and cultural narratives with architectural expression. Unique features include elevated observation platforms that promote panoramic views and social gathering areas that facilitate communal interaction.

Material Selection and Sustainability

A deliberate choice of materials defines the architecture of the Buffalo Nickel Lookout Point. Weathering steel is used for the facade, allowing the structure to develop a patina that enhances over time while complementing the landscape. Glued-laminated timber forms the primary structural framework, offering sustainability through local sourcing and carbon sequestration. Perforated metal panels are incorporated for aesthetic value while also providing functional ventilation. Lastly, concrete is utilized for its durability in foundational elements, ensuring long-term stability.

The thoughtful combination of these materials not only speaks to sustainable building practices but also supports the project's mission of environmental awareness and cultural representation.

Spatial Arrangement and User Interaction

The design organizes space to encourage accessibility and interaction. Key components include areas designated for gatherings, such as a campfire pit, which fosters community connections, and an amphitheater for performances and educational activities. Observation platforms are strategically placed to enhance user experience, providing opportunities for quiet reflection or social engagement. Pathways throughout the site ensure that visitors of all abilities can easily navigate and appreciate the space.

The elevation changes create a dynamic topography that invites exploration while framing views of the surrounding natural environment. This design approach combines functionality with immersive experience, setting the lookout point apart from conventional architectural projects.

For further insights, explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the unique elements of the Buffalo Nickel Lookout Point. Engaging with detailed architectural ideas can provide a comprehensive understanding of this significant space.

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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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