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Biomimetic Design With ETFE Facade and Green Terraces Enhancing Community Engagement

Authors:
FERNANDO MADRID, LUCIA TABOADA
Biomimetic Design With ETFE Facade and Green Terraces Enhancing Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Comprising an ETFE façade and dynamic green terraces, the design fosters an interactive environment that nurtures fashion education and cultural exchange within the community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Composed of a lightweight ETFE façade that maximizes natural light while minimizing energy use.
02
Features staggered green terraces that integrate biodiversity into urban settings.
03
Incorporates flexible workshop spaces that adapt to various educational activities.
04
Designed to facilitate high levels of public interaction through open communal areas.
05
Utilizes sustainable materials, contributing to a low environmental impact.
The Fashion Cocoon is an architectural project that serves as the ASEAN Fashion Development Center, located in an urban context designed to enhance connectivity among public spaces. This project aims to create a vibrant hub for fashion education, exhibitions, and cultural exchange, fostering collaboration and innovation within the industry.

The building's design is inspired by organic forms found in nature, particularly the structure of a cocoon. This symbolic representation signifies protection and growth, aligning with the center's mission to nurture the fashion sector in the region. The overall form is characterized by a series of staggered tiers that create dynamic visual relationships and promote accessibility throughout the site.

Unique Design Approaches

The Fashion Cocoon distinguishes itself through its seamless integration with the urban landscape. The façade consists of ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene) and glass, optimizing natural light while maintaining energy efficiency. This choice of materials not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the building but also supports sustainable practices.

The layout is carefully organized to accommodate various functions, including public spaces, offices, workshops, and a dedicated library. Each level is designed to facilitate interaction and flow between areas, promoting a collaborative atmosphere for students, professionals, and the community. Special attention has been given to creating dynamic internal spaces that adapt to a range of activities, from educational programs to fashion exhibitions.

Sustainable Features and Community Engagement

Incorporating sustainable design principles is a central aspect of the Fashion Cocoon. The use of natural ventilation, passive cooling strategies, and green terraces contributes to its ecological footprint. These elements not only serve functional purposes but also encourage biodiversity within the urban environment.

The project emphasizes community engagement as a key component of its design. Public plazas and communal spaces are integrated into the ground level, inviting interaction and participation from the surrounding neighborhoods. This approach reinforces the notion of fashion as a shared cultural experience, extending the building's impact beyond its educational functions.

For more in-depth insights, the presentation includes architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that detail the layout and functionality of the Fashion Cocoon. Exploring these elements will provide a comprehensive understanding of the project’s innovative architectural ideas and its role in shaping the future of fashion in the region.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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