Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Cantilevered Structure Embraced by Glass and Concrete Creating Engaging Community Spaces

Authors:
Pratchaya Lertrucksadee, NATTHAPOL PONGPLANCHAI, PORNCHAROEN ORANRATMANEE, PHANIN CHANTALERT
Cantilevered Structure Embraced by Glass and Concrete Creating Engaging Community Spaces

Project in-detail

A cantilevered upper level supported by a concrete framework and expansive glass facades defines an adaptable community hub that fosters cultural engagement and artistic expression.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cantilevered upper level provides sheltered gathering spaces.
02
Extensive use of glass enhances natural lighting and visibility.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural integrity.
04
Acoustic design integrated for optimal sound quality in performance areas.
05
Open garden area fosters connection with nature within an urban setting.

## Overview

The Ark is situated in Adelaide, South Australia, and represents a novel approach to urban design that emphasizes community engagement and cultural connectivity. Drawing inspiration from the city's identities as the "City of Churches" and the "City of Music," the design aims to serve as a versatile hub for local artists, festivals, and civic activities. The project balances material selection, environmental interaction, and accessibility, seeking to integrate diverse activities that enhance public life.

## Spatial Configuration

The master plan outlines a multi-layered layout that caters to a variety of functions, each designed to foster interaction and inclusivity. The ground floor features a large performance space tailored for festivals and public gatherings, complemented by a reception area and café, which create a welcoming environment. Above, the first floor consists of galleries and seminar rooms dedicated to artistic expression and educational activities, while the second floor accommodates additional exhibition space and a theater. The design facilitates fluid movement between levels and encourages adaptability, with open voids and landscaped areas incorporated to enhance user experience.

## Material Selection

Material choices for The Ark reflect its commitment to functionality and openness. Concrete provides structural durability, while glass promotes transparency and visual connectivity between indoor and outdoor environments. The integration of steel in the framework supports both aesthetics and structural integrity, while wood accents in the interior add warmth and a natural feel. Acoustic panels are employed in performance areas to optimize sound quality. The selected materials collectively support the project's ethos of community focus and sustainability, enhancing the relationship between the built environment and its users.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy