Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Central Concrete Tube and Oculus Connect Subterranean Exhibition Space with Natural Light

Authors:
Hankang Jin, Dinullah Bayu Ibrahim
Central Concrete Tube and Oculus Connect Subterranean Exhibition Space with Natural Light

Project in-detail

A central concrete tube and an oculus create a dynamic connection between subterranean exhibition spaces and natural light, facilitating a cultural hub for community interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
A central concrete tube integrates structural and aesthetic elements, enhancing spatial connectivity.
02
An oculus allows natural light to illuminate subterranean exhibition areas, creating a dynamic atmosphere.
03
The design incorporates varied concrete textures, including polished and rough finishes, for visual interest.
04
Strategic openings throughout the structure facilitate seamless movement and interaction among visitors.
05
Natural wood finishes are utilized in key interior spaces to soften the overall architectural expression.

### Project Overview

Located in Piazza Galeno, the design integrates contemporary architectural expressions with elements drawn from Rome’s historical context, particularly reflecting the grandeur of the Pantheon. The intent is to create a dialogue that fosters interaction among culture, nature, and the human experience, inviting visitors to engage with both the structure and its surroundings.

### Spatial Arrangement and Connectivity

The multi-level configuration of the structure strategically utilizes subterranean spaces due to height limitations in the area. The layout encourages fluidity in movement and interaction:

- **Levels and Functions:**
- **Level 0** serves as a public urban space.
- **Level -1** functions as a transitional area leading to the main hall.
- **Level -2** accommodates a multifunctional hall and exhibition space.

A central concrete tube extends from the structure's apex down to its lowest level, fostering a seamless connection between above-ground and below-ground areas. The design includes carefully placed stairways to facilitate movement among levels and large openings that introduce natural light, enriching the internal environment.

### Material Selection and Aesthetic Details

The project employs a diverse palette of materials, enhancing its architectural expression:

- **Exterior and Interior Materials:**
- Polished precast concrete walls and floors provide durability and aesthetic appeal.
- Rough-brushed concrete walls feature integrated artistic textures.
- Concrete embedded with glass elements adds visual interest.
- Natural wood finishes are utilized in conference rooms and café areas to warm the interior atmosphere.

The material choices and textures contribute to a cohesive sensory experience, reflecting both the essence of Roman architecture and contemporary functional requirements.

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