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Charred Wood Shingles and Transparent Facades Integrate History and Community Engagement in a Former Train Station Conversion

Authors:
Ebrahim Abdolah Zadeh, Hooman Talebi
Charred Wood Shingles and Transparent Facades Integrate History and Community Engagement in a Former Train Station Conversion

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood shingles and a transparent façade, the design transforms a historic train station into a contemporary cultural hub that fosters community engagement and explores the narratives of digital culture.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design integrates charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and aesthetic appeal while referencing local craftsmanship.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural elements, promoting sustainability through low carbon footprint construction.
03
A transparent façade fosters visual connection between interior spaces and the surrounding community, inviting public interaction.
04
The project repurposes a historic train station, preserving significant architectural features while blending them with contemporary design elements.
05
Flexible exhibition spaces accommodate a variety of cultural events, supporting ongoing community engagement and educational programs.
The Internet Museum project is an architectural endeavor situated within a context that bridges historical significance and contemporary function. Housed in a repurposed former train station, this museum represents the interplay between the legacy of traditional forms and the dynamic nature of digital culture. Its primary function is to serve as a repository and exhibition space dedicated to the artifacts and experiences tethered to the internet, making it a crucial addition to the cultural fabric of the region.

The architectural design thoughtfully preserves the existing structure of the train station while introducing new interventions that facilitate diverse public interactions. This adaptive reuse strategy preserves an important piece of local history while allowing for modern reinterpretation. Key components of the project include flexible exhibition spaces that can accommodate a variety of installations and events, a public plaza designed for social gathering, and educational spaces that foster community engagement and learning.

Central to the project's design is the careful balance of historical integrity and contemporary architectural expression. The architects opted for a material palette that includes brick, concrete, and glass, effectively merging the new with the old. Brick, reflective of the existing train station, is employed in the new volumes, creating continuity between the past and present. Concrete structures provide the necessary structural integrity and a modern contrast to the surrounding context. Glass is used to enhance transparency, allowing natural light to permeate the interior and inviting a seamless interaction between indoor exhibits and outdoor public spaces.

The layout of the museum follows a logical flow that guides visitors through various zones while encouraging exploration and engagement. The ground floor serves as the main entry point, featuring a café and an expansive exhibition hall. This design decision ensures that visitors are immediately immersed in the museum experience upon arrival. Moving upward, the first floor incorporates classrooms and seminar spaces, enabling educational programs that resonate with contemporary topics related to internet culture. Additionally, the basement level is cleverly utilized for mechanical services and additional exhibition space, maximizing the functional use of every area within the building.

One of the unique design approaches taken in this project is the integration of varied spatial experiences. As visitors traverse through the museum, they encounter not only traditional exhibition areas but also public terraces and open studios that facilitate community events and spontaneous interactions. This blurring of boundaries between private exhibit spaces and public zones enhances the museum's role as a community hub and encourages ongoing dialogue around digital themes.

The architectural sections and elevations provide insight into the design's articulation and its relationship with the surrounding environment. The profile of the building features a composition that respects the existing scale of the train station while introducing modern forms that reflect its cultural purpose. The careful consideration of light and shadow plays a significant role in creating atmospheric experiences within the museum, highlighting the transient nature of digital interaction and the importance of connectivity in our modern lives.

Overall, the Internet Museum stands as a testament to thoughtful architectural design that respects historical context while embracing contemporary ideas. It is a space that invites exploration and encourages reflection on the evolution of digital culture. For those interested in the details of this project, exploring architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas will provide deeper insights into the design's vision and execution. The project embodies a comprehensive approach to integrating history and modernity, making it a valuable addition to the landscape.
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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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