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Charred Wood Elements and Expansive Glass Facades Create a Cultural Hub for Poetry

Author:
DRAGOS ILIESCU
Charred Wood Elements and Expansive Glass Facades Create a Cultural Hub for Poetry

Project in-detail

With its evocative charred wood elements and expansive glass facades, the cultural hub transforms poetic expression into a tangible experience, inviting community engagement in the heart of L’Aquila.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that contribute to structural stability and sustainability.
03
Utilizes a bent A-frame design, creating dynamic interior spaces filled with natural light.
04
Integrates public gathering areas that encourage community interaction and poetic expression.
05
Located in L’Aquila, the project harmonizes contemporary architecture with historical context.
The architectural project for the Rome Poetry Hall in L’Aquila, Italy, represents a thoughtful exploration of cultural expression through the medium of poetry. This design is not merely a building; it serves as a vibrant hub fostering creativity, community interaction, and cultural engagement. The Poetry Hall is envisioned as a space that allows poets, writers, and the general public to gather and share their love for the art form, creating an environment that nurtures artistic expression.

At its core, the function of the Rome Poetry Hall extends beyond its role as a venue for poetry readings and workshops. It is intended to be a multifunctional space that accommodates a variety of events, from intimate readings to larger community gatherings. The design allows for flexibility in how spaces are utilized, ensuring that the hall can adapt to different types of programming while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic throughout.

The architectural design images convey a deliberate arrangement of volumes that play off one another, creating an engaging silhouette against the urban backdrop. Each component of the structure seems to interact thoughtfully with light and shadow, evoking the nuances often found within poetry itself. The building’s massing is characterized by a mix of rising forms that emphasize its cultural significance while drawing the eye upward, creating a sense of aspiration and connection.

A standout feature of the project is its seamless integration of materials that balances durability with aesthetics. Concrete serves as the primary structural element, providing a solid foundation while facilitating creative expression in the building’s skin through innovative detailing. This choice reinforces the idea of permanence in art. In contrast, expansive glass facades introduce transparency, inviting the outside world to connect with the interior activities. The glass elements foster an openness that aligns with the hall’s mission to encourage collaboration and engagement.

Inside, the use of wood adds warmth and intimacy to the environment, crafting spaces that feel welcoming and accessible to visitors. This material choice speaks to the emotional undertones of poetry, where the tactile qualities of wood can evoke comfort and nostalgia. The design also features unique spatial configurations, such as raised platforms and intimate alcoves, that invite moments of contemplation and interaction. The layout encourages informal gatherings and spontaneous creativity, truly embodying the spirit of collaboration.

The design approach taken in the Rome Poetry Hall emphasizes the importance of context and community. Located in L’Aquila, a city with a rich historical narrative, the building is carefully positioned to complement and interact with its surroundings. This is achieved through its architectural language, which respects the traditional elements of the local context while infusing contemporary ideas into the design. The thoughtful incorporation of local materials and the consideration of the climate further enhance the building’s relevance and connection to its environment.

In summary, the Rome Poetry Hall project represents a harmonious blend of architecture and art, creating a space dedicated to the appreciation of poetry and the literary arts. Its various functions are supported by a design that prioritizes flexibility and community engagement while remaining aesthetically grounded in its surroundings. By exploring this project further, including examining architectural plans and sections, readers can gain deeper insights into the innovative ideas that shape this unique cultural landmark. The real essence of this architectural endeavor lies not just in its forms but in the interactions and experiences it facilitates for the community it serves.
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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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