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Ceramic Tubes Illuminate Adaptive Tower in Urban Exhibition Centre

Author:
BOSSENO EDDY
Ceramic Tubes Illuminate Adaptive Tower in Urban Exhibition Centre

Project in-detail

The innovative use of ceramic tubes for natural light diffusion distinguishes the tower within this multifunctional exhibition centre, which integrates a three-level parking structure and diverse public spaces to enhance urban engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower utilizes ceramic tubes to enhance natural light distribution.
02
The circular parking structure defines the site's boundaries and promotes efficient traffic flow.
03
Sliding panels in lecture halls allow for flexible spatial configurations.
04
A double wall system is implemented for improved thermal performance.
05
Automated shading systems adjust to environmental conditions for optimal comfort.

The Riga International Exhibition Centre is a contemporary structure located in Riga, Latvia. It is designed to blend modern architecture with the city's historical elements, showcasing a mix of styles from its rich cultural background. Serving as a hub for exhibitions, meetings, and various public events, the centre aims to strengthen connections among visitors, the community, and the urban environment.

Parking Building

The centre includes a three-level parking facility designed as a circular "street." This layout clearly marks the boundaries of the site while allowing for smooth vehicle movement. It accommodates 410 parking spaces, ensuring easy access for visitors. The areas around the parking structure feature exhibition zones and spaces for relaxation, enriching the visitor experience and promoting engagement within the surroundings.

Tower Design

Alongside the parking area stands a tower that serves as a visual anchor in the landscape. While not overly tall, the tower's vertical design enhances the urban skyline and adds a modern touch to the mixed architectural styles of Riga. Its facades incorporate essential functional elements, including staircases and elevators, as well as restroom facilities. These features enable natural light to enter through ceramic tubes, creating an inviting atmosphere for occupants and maintaining views to the outside.

Technical Features

The design incorporates several technical solutions that prioritize energy efficiency and comfort. A double wall system improves thermal performance, helping to maintain a stable indoor climate. Automated shading systems adjust according to sunlight, allowing for better climate control. The variable intensity lighting system provides flexibility for different activities. Additionally, a ground air distribution system helps regulate temperature across the interiors.

Interior Arrangement

Inside the tower, various spaces are designed to serve multiple functions. Meeting rooms, administrative offices, and a showroom are all included. The lecture halls can be reconfigured using sliding panels, which allows for adaptability based on user needs. This thoughtful spatial planning ensures that the different areas promote interaction and facilitate movement throughout the building.

The design of the Riga International Exhibition Centre not only meets the functional demands of an urban exhibition space but also respects the historical context of Riga. It creates a harmonious balance between new architectural solutions and the city's existing character, enhancing the overall urban landscape.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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