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Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Facades in A Multifunctional Community Hub

Author:
William Yuan
Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Facades in A Multifunctional Community Hub

Project in-detail

The use of charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades creates a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, serving as a multifunctional hub for community engagement and cultural exchange in Tokyo.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features extensive glass facades to maximize natural light and visual connectivity with the surroundings.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for a sustainable structural solution.
04
Includes a flexible design that allows reconfiguration for various community activities.
05
The bent A-frame design reduces material usage while providing a unique aesthetic.
The Tokyo Pop Lab is an innovative architectural project located in the heart of Tokyo, Japan. This multifunctional cultural hub serves as a space for creativity, education, and community engagement. With its design focused on adaptability and interactivity, the structure aims to accommodate a wide variety of activities, including digital media productions, workshops, and performances. Its primary goal is to foster a sense of community while reflecting the dynamic culture of Tokyo.

The project encompasses several distinct functional areas tailored to serve diverse audiences. The basement level hosts cultural interactions, maximizing flexibility for events such as performances and exhibitions. The ground level features open exhibit space and a public-facing pop-up lab, designed to encourage active participation from visitors. Above this space, the mezzanine provides an interactive platform for reconfigurable activities, while the upper levels focus on classrooms and studio work, supporting educational initiatives. Additionally, dedicated areas for forums and administration allow for logistics and discussions, reinforcing collaboration within the space.

Unique design approaches set the Tokyo Pop Lab apart from similar projects. First, its architectural form integrates a central atrium that promotes vertical circulation and ensures natural light permeates the interior, creating an inviting atmosphere. The openness of the layout encourages flow and interaction among users, facilitating a community-oriented experience.

Materiality plays an essential role in defining the project's character. The combination of concrete, glass, wood, and metal establishes a dialogue between durability and modernity. The extensive use of glass enhances transparency, inviting the surrounding urban environment into the space and blurring the boundaries between indoors and outdoors. Concrete forms a robust structural foundation, while wood adds warmth and tactility critical for user engagement. Metal elements introduce a contemporary aesthetic, contributing to the modern design ethos.

The design also features interactive components that cater to a diverse audience, including design elements such as swings in the pop-up lab that promote playful engagement. Such features not only enhance the user experience but serve as focal points that draw visitors into the building. This consideration of user interactivity is a definitive aspect of the design philosophy employed in creating the Tokyo Pop Lab.

For a deeper understanding of this project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas, interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for further insights. The architectural details captured within the design documentation highlight the careful planning and thoughtful execution that characterize this culturally significant hub in Tokyo.
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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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