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Cellular Design with Steel Framework and Natural Light Integration for a Community Learning Hub

Author:
Shahira Hammad
Cellular Design with Steel Framework and Natural Light Integration for a Community Learning Hub

Project in-detail

Emphasizing a cellular structural design, the facility utilizes a steel framework and integrated sun pipes to enhance natural lighting, creating an engaging environment for artists to collaborate and learn.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cellular structural design enhances the building's connection to nature.
02
Integrated sun pipes provide natural illumination for underground spaces.
03
The use of charred wooden shingles promotes fire resistance and durability.
04
A multilevel layout supports diverse artistic functions and community interaction.
05
Steel framework allows for organic forms, optimizing aesthetic and structural performance.

## Overview

Located in a site that reflects an interplay of cultural and natural elements, this architectural undertaking draws inspiration from Aboriginal art and the structural formations found in biological cells. The design aims to foster creative engagement by integrating organic shapes that encourage collaboration and interaction among artists and the public, thereby moving beyond conventional educational paradigms.

## Spatial Configuration

The project features a multi-leveled design that supports varied functions integral to artistic practice. The ground level serves as a public space, enhanced by landscaped areas, while the first level includes individual studios and guest accommodations that facilitate both solitude and cooperation. An underground level houses classrooms and galleries, emphasizing a connection between inner and outer environments. This arrangement allows for a fluid experience, where movement through spaces encourages spontaneous interactions and the exchange of ideas.

## Material and Sustainability Considerations

The material palette prioritizes both aesthetic qualities and functional performance, incorporating a delicate steel framework that supports the fluid architectural forms. Glass elements are strategically employed to enhance transparency and facilitate visual links between interior and exterior spaces, while concrete ensures structural durability. The inclusion of natural landscaping elements not only promotes biodiversity but also reinforces the connection to the surrounding ecosystem. Sustainable features such as sun pipes afford natural lighting to the underground facilities, promoting energy efficiency and creating an inspiring atmosphere conducive to creativity.

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

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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

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