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Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Canopies Redefining Urban Cultural Spaces

Authors:
Steve Mintern, Simon Robinson
Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Canopies Redefining Urban Cultural Spaces

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the design transforms underutilized urban car parks into vibrant cultural hubs that promote community engagement and artistic expression.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for weather resistance and aesthetic contrast.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural stability and sustainability.
03
Employs a bent A-frame design to maximize natural light and spatial efficiency.
04
Integrates community spaces that adapt for various cultural events and activities.
05
Promotes bicycle access and pedestrian pathways to reduce vehicle reliance.
"The Park" is an architectural project located in the Adelaide Central Business District, Australia. This project focuses on transforming previously underutilized car parks into active urban spaces designed to foster creativity and community engagement. Covering an area of 165,000 square meters, "The Park" comprises a series of interconnected creative hubs dedicated to cultural activities, environmental sustainability, and reducing vehicle dependency.

The project integrates various elements that support both public engagement and artistic expression. Ten distinct hubs will accommodate galleries, performance spaces, business incubators, and areas for recreational activities, all interconnected to encourage movement and interaction. The design emphasizes adaptability, allowing spaces to evolve according to community needs and current cultural trends.

Innovative Design Approaches

One distinguishing feature of "The Park" is its innovative approach to urban space utilization. It aims to recondition existing infrastructural elements, including multilevel car parks, through a thoughtful architectural design that layers different functionalities. The vertical stacking of spaces not only maximizes the utility of the area but also fosters a dynamic environment where various activities occur simultaneously. This configuration enables visitors to traverse the park without constraining their experience to fixed pathways, promoting exploration and spontaneity.

Materiality plays a critical role in the design. The project employs reinforced concrete for durability and structural stability, while glass is utilized to enhance transparency and connectivity, allowing natural light to permeate various spaces. Steel frameworks contribute to the modern aesthetic and functional versatility, enabling the creation of open and inviting environments that inspire creativity.

Interconnected Functions and Contextual Integration

The strategic positioning of "The Park" within the Adelaide CBD creates a symbiotic relationship with nearby cultural institutions such as the Gawler Gallery and the Adelaide Centre for Contemporary Music. This context-rich environment allows the project to amplify the city’s cultural narrative while addressing the public’s growing demand for accessible creative spaces.

The design also promotes sustainable mobility through integrated pathways and dedicated bicycle lanes, effectively reducing the dependency on automobiles. By transforming these areas into car-free zones, "The Park" not only enhances urban livability but also encourages social interaction among community members.

The architectural plans and sections delineate the thoughtful arrangement of spaces that adapt to the varied requirements of the community. An emphasis on diverse programming ensures that the project remains relevant over time, capable of hosting various events and activities that attract and engage the public.

Prospective readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further, examining architectural plans, sections, and design ideas to gain deeper insights into the comprehensive nature of "The Park." This architectural endeavor exemplifies the potential for urban revitalization anchored in creativity and community-focused design.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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