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Chimney-Like Ventilation Systems Made From Polycarbonate and Timber Elevate Community Spaces

Authors:
Gyula Takács, Szilvia Odry, András Németh, Dalma Fix
Chimney-Like Ventilation Systems Made From Polycarbonate and Timber Elevate Community Spaces

Project in-detail

A chimney-like structure crafted from timber and polycarbonate symbolizes the aspiration for cleaner air while providing a flexible community space dedicated to environmental education and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates a chimney-like design that symbolizes the community's commitment to air quality.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for both aesthetics and structural integrity, enhancing sustainability.
03
Polycarbonate cladding allows for abundant natural light while maintaining energy efficiency throughout the building.
04
The flexible interior layout supports various community activities, from educational workshops to social gatherings.
05
Charred wooden shingles provide both a unique visual texture and increased durability against the elements.
The project under analysis is a thoughtfully designed architecture initiative located in Krakow, Poland, aimed at addressing the urgent challenges associated with air pollution in the region. The architectural design embodies a commitment to environmental sustainability while fostering community engagement through its multifunctional spaces. At its core, this project reflects a dual purpose: to serve as a physical space for community interaction and to symbolize the ongoing struggle for cleaner air in urban environments.

The building adopts a pavilion-style form, sitting lightly on the site with an adaptable footprint measuring 15 meters by 15 meters. This flexible arrangement allows for a variety of functions, including a reception area, library, consultation rooms, restrooms, and kitchen facilities. Such versatility makes the pavilion suitable for diverse activities, from educational programs to community gatherings, encouraging local residents to connect with one another while promoting awareness about air quality issues.

A prominent feature of the design is its incorporation of a chimney-like structure, which plays a symbolic role in the project's narrative. This vertical element not only serves a functional purpose of facilitating air ventilation but also visually represents the aspiration for a cleaner atmosphere. It invites dialogue among community members about their shared responsibility in improving air quality. The use of natural elements in the structure further enhances this dialogue, positioning the project as a beacon of hope and action in the face of environmental challenges.

The architectural framework is primarily constructed using a wooden post and beam system, emphasizing sustainability and the use of locally sourced materials. These include timber pillars, beams, and walls, paired with polycarbonate layers that allow for an abundance of natural light to enter the space. This choice of materials not only addresses environmental concerns but also contributes to the aesthetic warmth of the pavilion, creating an inviting atmosphere for users. The integration of vertical timber lath coverings and folding doors further enhances the building's relationship with the outdoors, offering opportunities for natural airflow and an immersive experience of the surrounding environment.

From an aesthetic perspective, the building's design thoughtfully balances modern architectural ideas with the traditional qualities of timber construction. The rhythmic pattern of wooden slats and angles creates a visual dialogue between light and shadow, facilitating a dynamic experience for occupants as they move through the space. Every element is designed to improve the efficiency of natural ventilation, which aligns with the project's overarching goal of improving local air quality.

Furthermore, the project emphasizes adaptability, ensuring that the space can evolve to meet the changing needs of the community it serves. By offering a modular layout, it allows for easy reconfiguration of spaces, which can accommodate a variety of uses and functions over time. This feature is essential to the design philosophy, illustrating an understanding that architectural solutions must be flexible in addressing the needs of local populations.

In summary, the architecture of this project encapsulates a forward-thinking approach to urban design, integrating sustainability with community-centric values. The careful selection of materials, the emphasis on functionality, and the incorporation of symbolic elements all contribute to a comprehensive strategy aimed at enhancing the urban environment of Krakow. Readers interested in further exploring the intricate details of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that underpin this project are encouraged to delve deeper into the visual and conceptual presentations available. Engaging with the presented materials will provide a fuller understanding of how this architecture project uniquely contributes to addressing both environmental and social challenges in a meaningful way.
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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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