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Circular Community Space Crafted From Cardboard and Enhanced With Solar Technology

Authors:
Maria jimena Lineros, Julian david Jaime landinez
Circular Community Space Crafted From Cardboard and Enhanced With Solar Technology

Project in-detail

Crafted predominantly from repurposed cardboard and designed with a circular form, this multifunctional space integrates solar technology to foster community engagement in the heart of Berlin.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposed cardboard forms the primary structural element, emphasizing sustainability and innovative material use.
02
The circular shape fosters an inclusive environment, encouraging social interaction and community gatherings.
03
Integrated solar panels provide renewable energy, enhancing the project's eco-friendly credentials.
04
The design incorporates a multisensory experience, blending soundscapes and dynamic lighting for user engagement.
05
Modular components allow for easy relocation and adaptability to changing urban contexts.
The Capsule is an architectural project designed with the intent of enhancing public interaction in urban environments, specifically addressing the unique social landscape of Berlin. This design emerges from a context marked by historical upheaval and a modern need for communal spaces in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Capsule represents a thoughtful response to the evolving needs of city dwellers and seeks to create a multifunctional space that encourages engagement and exploration among diverse groups of people.

Central to the project’s conception is the idea of mobility and adaptability. The design utilizes a cylindrical form, which not only emphasizes fluidity and movement but also facilitates ease of access. Its curvature promotes an inviting atmosphere, encouraging users to engage more freely in the space. The Capsule is intended to be a temporary architecture solution, showcasing functional flexibility. This aspect allows the structure to integrate into various public spaces, thereby allowing the project to respond to the dynamic urban environment of Berlin.

In terms of functionality, the Capsule serves multiple roles, from a community gathering site to a platform for artistic expression and social interaction. Its design contemplates both temporary use and the spontaneity of urban life. Users can experience a myriad of activities within the Capsule; this includes social events, workshops, and even performances, all while being immersed in a carefully curated multisensory environment.

The project employs a diverse range of materials that reflect its sustainable ethos and commitment to ecological responsibility. Cardboard is used prominently in structural elements, chosen for its lightweight nature and recyclability. Solar panels are integrated into the design, allowing the Capsule to harness renewable energy, which underscores its intent to minimize environmental impact. Moreover, the outer shell is comprised of a fabric skin that serves dual functions by providing thermal insulation and enhancing acoustic properties, thereby improving user comfort.

Inside, the design features various layers that invite interaction. Upper and lower platforms are strategically positioned to facilitate movement, while also providing spaces for gathering and individual contemplation. The integration of LED lights plays a significant role in creating atmospheric changes within the Capsule, demonstrating how lighting can influence mood and interaction. Perforated mesh components allow for natural ventilation and contribute to sound modulation, ensuring that the environment remains conducive to diverse activities.

One of the distinctive design approaches taken in this project is its emphasis on creating a multisensory experience. The incorporation of soundscapes, enhanced lighting conditions, and aromatic elements helps to engage users on multiple levels, making the Capsule not just a physical entity, but an immersive experience. The architecture effectively transcends the traditional boundaries of a building, taking into consideration the psychological and social effects of space on human behavior.

The Capsule's overarching aim is to bridge the gap between individual solitude and collective experience, weaving together the fabric of community life. By situating the structure within accessible public spaces, it invites all members of the community to participate, fostering an environment that values inclusivity and connection. This approach aligns with broader architectural ideas that advocate for urban spaces that are responsive to users' needs.

As you explore the details of the Capsule, consider diving into elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that illustrate the intricacies of this forward-thinking project. The Capsule stands as an exemplar of contemporary architecture that not only addresses urgent societal needs but also invites continuous dialogue about the role of public space in our daily lives. The examination of this project can provide valuable insights into innovative design solutions that prioritize human interaction in the ever-evolving landscape of urban architecture.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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