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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Walls in a Flexible Cultural Laboratory Design

Authors:
Mateusz Halek, Kamil Schynol
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Walls in a Flexible Cultural Laboratory Design

Project in-detail

With a striking combination of charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, this cultural laboratory creates a versatile space for creative collaboration and community engagement in the heart of Tokyo.
5 key facts about this project
01
The facade incorporates a dynamic media layer that can display changing visual content.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and enhanced durability against weather conditions.
03
Flexible interior spaces allow for a variety of cultural activities and community events.
04
The glass walls create a seamless connection between the interior and the surrounding urban environment.
05
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to sustainability while maintaining structural integrity.
The Tokyo International Popular Culture Laboratory stands as a contemporary architectural project that embodies the confluence of tradition and modernity within a vibrant urban environment. Located in the heart of Tokyo, this laboratory serves as a dynamic hub for exploring, creating, and nurturing aspects of popular culture. It is designed to reflect the evolving landscape of creativity and cultural exchange, providing an adaptable space that fosters collaboration among artists, researchers, and the wider community.

This architecture represents a forward-thinking approach to cultural institutions by promoting interdisciplinary interactions and community engagement. The laboratory is structured to accommodate a variety of functions, including workspaces, studios, and exhibition areas. Each component is tailored to support different aspects of popular culture, such as visual arts, music, and digital media, allowing for a rich tapestry of activities that encourage educational pursuits alongside creative experimentation.

The project is distinguished by its innovative spatial organization. The interconnected volumes create a fluid layout that encourages movement throughout the building. This design facilitates spontaneous interactions while breaking down traditional barriers that often exist in more conventional settings. Visitors are welcomed into open areas where they can engage with ongoing projects, attend workshops, or experience curated exhibitions, making the space both accessible and inviting.

An important aspect of the building’s design is its emphasis on natural light and visibility. Large glass facades seamlessly integrate indoor and outdoor spaces, inviting the urban environment into the building, while enhancing the user experience. The careful placement of windows and open areas ensures that light permeates the interior, providing not only aesthetic qualities but also contributing to energy efficiency by reducing the need for artificial lighting.

Moreover, the material palette is thoughtfully chosen to balance modern aesthetics with cultural resonance. Glass surfaces create a sense of transparency and connection to the city, while warm wooden accents introduce an element of comfort and organic presence to the environment. The use of metals, specifically chromium-plated elements, adds a sleek, contemporary touch that reinforces the building's innovative character. Sustainable materials are also incorporated, reflecting the project's commitment to environmental responsibility and engaging with the principles of sustainable architecture.

The Tokyo International Popular Culture Laboratory integrates advanced technology into its design. The facade includes a media layer that can display changing visuals, acting not only as a canvas for artistic expression but also inviting public interaction. This layer transforms the laboratory into a responsive element of the cityscape, allowing it to engage with events, cultural happenings, and community initiatives.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout this project, particularly in its strong focus on adaptability and public engagement. The laboratory is conceived as a platform for dialogue and exchange, where diverse cultural practices can coalesce and evolve. The design promotes a sense of community through its openness and accessibility, encouraging visitors to experience and participate in the vibrant cultural landscape of Tokyo.

Exploring this project further allows for a deeper understanding of its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas. Such insights reveal the intricate thought processes that shape its functional and aesthetic qualities, and how it aligns with the broader context of Tokyo’s urban identity. For those interested in the intersection of architecture and cultural innovation, the Tokyo International Popular Culture Laboratory presents a model worth examining. It invites viewers to consider the roles similar spaces can play in fostering creativity and enhancing community life.
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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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