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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Define a Cultural Hub in Tokyo

Authors:
MA. CONCEPCION ROXAS, JOHN NIKKO MACABAGDAL
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Define a Cultural Hub in Tokyo

Project in-detail

Characterized by its use of charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the design creates a vibrant cultural hub in Tokyo that fosters community interaction through diverse, multifunctional spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles to enhance weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates large glass facades for natural light and connection to the outdoors.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes spatial efficiency and structural integrity.
04
Integrates flexible workshop spaces that adapt to varying community needs.
05
Emphasizes sustainability with locally sourced materials and eco-friendly construction practices.

**Project Overview**
Pop Cycle Tokyo is located in a vibrant urban context that reflects the rich tapestry of popular culture in Tokyo, Japan. The project aims to serve as a multifunctional hub, integrating contemporary architectural elements with community-oriented spaces, catering to a diverse user demographic. It is designed to not only fulfill practical needs but also to foster social interaction and cultural exchange among visitors.

**Architectural Form and Spatial Strategy**
The design is characterized by smooth, flowing lines and a modular structure that evokes movement, symbolizing the dynamic nature of pop culture. Layered, cantilevered sections enhance the visual fluidity of the building, creating a sense of energy throughout the form. The spatial organization is methodically planned, with distinct zones including a library for quiet study, a forum equipped for community gatherings, and an exhibition hall for showcasing cultural displays. This arrangement promotes user engagement and facilitates easy navigation throughout the various functional areas.

**Materials and Sustainability**
The project employs a deliberate selection of materials, prioritizing sustainability through the use of locally sourced components. Wood is extensively used for its aesthetic warmth and connection to traditional Japanese design, while glass elements facilitate transparency and visual connectivity with the surrounding environment. Concrete and steel provide structural integrity and durability. This strategic focus on materiality not only enhances the overall aesthetic but also aligns with contemporary principles of sustainable architecture, establishing a responsible relationship between the built environment and its natural context.

**Community Integration**
Outdoor spaces, such as the Pedestrian Lane of Media Park, create a vibrant atmosphere conducive to community engagement. These landscaped areas promote interaction among residents and visitors, merging urban life with natural elements. The careful integration of greenery and public pathways ensures that the architectural framework complements its environment, reinforcing the project's commitment to enriching the urban landscape while fostering a sense of community.

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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

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