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Charred Wood Seams and Glass Facades Defining a Multifunctional Urban Fashion Hub

Authors:
Miles Bianchi, Ari Takata- Vasquez
Charred Wood Seams and Glass Facades Defining a Multifunctional Urban Fashion Hub

Project in-detail

Charred wood seams interlace with expansive glass facades to create a multifunctional hub that nurtures Bangkok's burgeoning fashion industry.
5 key facts about this project
01
Facades incorporate extensive use of glass to enhance transparency and visibility for street engagement.
02
Charred wood shingles provide fire resistance while adding a distinctive texture to the exterior.
03
The building employs a bent A-frame design, optimizing structural integrity and interior space.
04
Flexible interior layouts support diverse uses, accommodating evolving fashion industry needs.
05
A dedicated runway space integrates seamlessly into the overall circulation, facilitating community events.
The Shards + Seams project represents a comprehensive architectural design for a fashion hub located in Bangkok. This facility is strategically envisioned to cater to the needs of the city's fashion industry, creating a multifunctional space that balances retail, education, and event hosting. The architectural design emphasizes the integration of various programmatic elements through a coherent narrative that reflects the dynamism and creativity inherent in fashion.

The project comprises a series of angular "shards" that represent the bold and innovative aspects of fashion design, contrasted by connective "seams" that facilitate movement and interaction. The first two floors accommodate retail and food services, allowing for immediate accessibility for visitors and a vibrant atmosphere for local designers and consumers. Higher levels are dedicated to educational facilities, encouraging collaboration and mentorship among emerging fashion professionals. A dedicated runway space at the pinnacle of the building serves as a venue for showcasing local talent, reinforcing the hub's role as a central node in the fashion ecosystem.

Innovative Design Approach
What distinguishes the Shards + Seams project from other architectural ventures in similar domains is its emphasis on programmatic flexibility and spatial connectivity. The shards are not only visually compelling but also functionally diverse, providing varied spaces that can adapt to different uses over time. This flexibility is crucial in the fast-evolving fashion industry, enabling the hub to respond to changing trends and user needs effectively.

The use of materials is also key to the project’s identity. Glass façades enhance interaction with the external environment, inviting visual engagement from passersby. Steel elements provide structural integrity while allowing for expressive forms. Concrete is utilized strategically to create a solid foundation and contrast with lighter materials, fostering an engaging architectural dialogue. The incorporation of LED lighting enhances the utility of spaces, particularly in areas designated for events and presentations, aligning with the project's forward-thinking ethos.

Spatial Dynamics and Functionality
The arrangement of spaces throughout the Shards + Seams facility highlights the importance of user experience. The layout promotes fluid circulation, guiding visitors through different functionalities seamlessly. Ground floor retail spaces are designed to draw foot traffic, creating a bustling atmosphere that serves both patrons and emerging designers. The educational areas above foster collaboration, giving aspiring fashion professionals access to resources and mentoring, ultimately cultivating a supportive community.

The thoughtfully designed runway space at the top acts as the culmination of the building's vertical journey, symbolizing the creative pinnacle of fashion. This multi-use area is adaptable for various events, promoting a culture of showcasing that is vital for designers aiming to gain visibility.

To gain deeper insights into the project's architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas, interested readers are encouraged to explore further details of the Shards + Seams project presentation. This exploration will provide a more comprehensive understanding of its architectural significance and the thoughtful design strategies employed throughout.
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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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