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Cable-Supported Façades Featuring Composite Panels in A Versatile Community Hub

Author:
Louis Massonnet
Cable-Supported Façades Featuring Composite Panels in A Versatile Community Hub

Project in-detail

Showcasing a cable-supported structure with an engaging blend of glass and composite panels, the design serves as a versatile community hub that fosters interaction and creativity among its users.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cable-supported structure allows for expansive, unobstructed interior spaces.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to both strength and sustainability.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced durability and a unique aesthetic.
04
The design incorporates natural light through strategically placed glass façades.
05
Flexible spaces can easily adapt to various community functions and events.
The Katedrales project represents a thoughtful and well-integrated architectural design situated in the heart of Riga, Latvia. This initiative embodies a contemporary synthesis of form and function, showcasing a commitment to community engagement and sustainability. The architecture of Katedrales serves multiple purposes, housing a variety of public facilities that cater to the needs of the local population while fostering social interaction and cultural exchange.

At the core of the design is a versatile layout that accommodates a range of functions, from auditoriums and conference rooms to recreational spaces. The design emphasizes adaptability, enabling the spaces to host diverse events, whether it be art exhibitions, lectures, or community gatherings. This focus on multipurpose functionality is a hallmark of modern architecture, championing the idea that buildings should respond to the evolving requirements of their occupants.

The physical form of the Katedrales project is characterized by an engaging interplay of organic and geometric elements. The structure features soaring roofs supported by an innovative cable system, which not only creates a visually appealing silhouette but also maximizes interior volume. This thoughtful use of space allows for large, open areas, promoting flexibility in usage and facilitating various community activities. The vault-like roof design introduces a sense of light and openness, enhancing both the aesthetic quality of the interior and the overall user experience.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the Katedrales project, where a careful selection of materials contributes to the building's functionality and environmental harmony. The use of glass for façades enhances natural light penetration, connecting the interior spaces with the outside environment. This transparency encourages a dialogue between the building and its surroundings, inviting passersby to engage with the architecture. The inclusion of natural wood elements adds warmth to the interior, creating a welcoming atmosphere while showcasing sustainable practices. Steel, utilized in the cable structure, provides the necessary strength, demonstrating a modern approach to architectural engineering. Composite panels on the exterior offer a sleek and contemporary finish, reinforcing the project's commitment to innovative design.

One of the defining aspects of Katedrales is its strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental integration. The project is surrounded by thoughtfully landscaped parks and green spaces that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the site but also promote biodiversity and leisure for the community. The architecture incorporates systems designed for energy efficiency, natural ventilation solutions, and rainwater harvesting. This attention to ecological responsibility highlights a growing awareness of the need for sustainable architecture in contemporary design.

The Katedrales project does not merely function as a building; it positions itself as a vital component of the community. The layout encourages informal interactions, with communal areas strategically placed to foster social engagement and collaboration. Additionally, the design respects the cultural heritage of the region, drawing on local architectural language while presenting a modern interpretation that resonates with today's users.

Unique design approaches in Katedrales include the innovative use of a cable-supported structure that allows for expansive interior spaces devoid of obstructive columns. This not only optimizes the functionality of the space but also creates an environment that fosters creativity and collaboration. The adaptable nature of the spaces reflects an understanding of contemporary lifestyle changes, where flexibility in design is paramount.

For those interested in further exploring the nuances of the Katedrales project, it is worthwhile to delve into the architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the meticulous thought process behind this engaging project. To gain deeper insights into the architectural ideas that shaped this initiative and understand how they come together to create a unique public space, readers are encouraged to examine the provided presentation thoroughly. The Katedrales project stands as a valuable example of how architecture can effectively serve both environmental and social purposes, making it a significant addition to Riga's urban landscape.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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