Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Cladding Create Engaging Public Space in Historic Railway Station

Authors:
ZHUOJUN SHEN, CHEN CHEN
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Cladding Create Engaging Public Space in Historic Railway Station

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and exposed brick, the redesigned historic railway station transforms into an interactive museum that explores the evolution of internet technology while engaging the community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposes a historic railway station, retaining original brick elements.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetics.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for sustainable construction.
04
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to create dynamic internal spaces.
05
Engages the community through interactive exhibitions on internet history.
The London Internet Museum design project is located at the historically significant North Woolwich Old Station. This architectural endeavor represents a thoughtful integration of heritage and modernity, focusing on the evolution of internet technology within a museum framework. By converting an obsolete railway station into a contemporary cultural hub, the project aims to inform and engage the public through various interactive exhibits.

The museum functions as a venue for exhibitions, events, and educational activities centered around the history and impact of the internet. Key components include flexible exhibition spaces that allow for dynamic installations, a public café and gathering areas designed to encourage social interaction, and dedicated facilities for conferences and workshops. The thoughtfully designed circulation pathways facilitate a seamless flow between these areas, enhancing the visitor experience.

Architectural Concept and Design Approaches

One of the unique aspects of this project is its commitment to preserving the existing structure while incorporating modern design elements. Retaining key features of the old station, such as its brick facade, provides historical continuity and anchors the new design in its context. The use of timber cladding on the exterior creates a warm, inviting atmosphere while contrasting effectively with the industrial character of the station. Large glass panels are employed strategically to promote transparency and natural light, ensuring that visitors maintain a connection to the surrounding environment.

The project diverges from traditional museum design by prioritizing interactivity and community engagement. Exhibitions are designed to be immersive and dynamic, enabling visitors to explore internet history through hands-on experiences. This focus on user engagement addresses the contemporary needs of a digital-age audience, bridging the gap between technology and culture.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

The architectural organization of the museum comprises five distinct levels, each designated for specific functions related to the museum's mission. The first level features the main exhibition hall, designed with flexibility in mind to accommodate a wide range of displays. Above this, the upper levels host additional exhibition spaces, meeting rooms, and areas for community events. Social spaces are situated throughout the design, allowing visitors to pause, reflect, and engage in conversations.

The design also emphasizes accessibility, with all levels connected via thoughtful circulation routes that facilitate easy movement throughout the building. This consideration for user experience ensures that individuals of all abilities can navigate the space comfortably.

To explore detailed architectural plans, sections, and comprehensive design ideas, readers are encouraged to delve into the project's full presentation. Engaging with these elements will provide further insights into the architectural and functional intricacies that define the London Internet Museum project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy