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Ceramic Cladding Meets Vertical Greenery in a Community Hub

Authors:
Eliah Cappi, Shaowen Zhang, Philip Richardson
Ceramic Cladding Meets Vertical Greenery in a Community Hub

Project in-detail

Combining ceramic cladding and vertical greenery, the design enhances community engagement while providing essential spaces for commerce and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced ceramic tiles for enhanced aesthetic integration.
02
Incorporates a multifunctional Roof Garden to promote biodiversity.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design for optimal light distribution.
04
Integrates natural ventilation strategies to improve energy efficiency.
05
Design adapts to the surrounding urban context, enhancing community interaction.
The architecture project "Contingent Crossing" is a meticulously designed urban structure that integrates various community functions within a cohesive framework. Situated in a metropolitan area, the design aims to enhance connectivity among users while fostering a vibrant social atmosphere. The project incorporates public spaces, educational facilities, and areas for commerce, all organized to facilitate interaction and engagement among diverse groups.

The architectural layout emphasizes a multi-layered approach, optimizing the use of vertical space while ensuring ease of movement throughout the building. A dynamic facade combines materials such as concrete, glass, and steel with culturally relevant ceramic tiles, creating a dialogue between contemporary design and local heritage. This thoughtful material selection enhances both aesthetic appeal and structural performance.

Innovative Design Approaches

One distinguishing feature of "Contingent Crossing" is its integration of nature through green spaces like the Roof Garden and Reading Garden. These areas not only provide recreational opportunities but also contribute to environmental sustainability by promoting biodiversity and improving air quality. The architectural design incorporates passive strategies, such as natural ventilation and daylight optimization, which enhance energy efficiency and user comfort.

The project also prioritizes flexibility in its spatial organization. Multipurpose rooms serve a variety of functions, ranging from classrooms to community gathering spaces. This adaptability is vital for accommodating different activities and events, supporting the area's diverse population. The arrangement of these spaces encourages collaboration and fosters an inclusive atmosphere, inviting individuals from different backgrounds to engage with one another.

Community Engagement and Functionality

The main entrance opens to an inviting public area, seamlessly connecting the interior with the urban environment. This strategic positioning helps establish a strong relationship between the building and its surroundings. The ground floor is designed to accommodate a variety of uses, including a Fashion Market, which serves as a hub for local artisans and vendors.

By promoting local commerce, the project supports economic development while enhancing community ties. The upper levels house educational and professional spaces, designed to be adaptable to future needs. This forward-thinking approach enables the architecture to remain relevant and functional over time, aligning with the evolving requirements of the community.

For those interested in exploring "Contingent Crossing" further, reviewing architectural plans, sections, and design elements will provide deeper insights into the innovative approaches employed throughout the project. The careful consideration of materiality, spatial organization, and community-focused functionality positions this building as a significant addition to the architectural landscape.
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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