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Circular Extensions Crafted From Fair-Faced Concrete and Natural Timber For Community Engagement

Authors:
Haoze Wang, Chenxi Lei, Zhe Zheng, Ruijia Jia
Circular Extensions Crafted From Fair-Faced Concrete and Natural Timber For Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Crafted with circular extensions of fair-faced concrete and natural timber, the cultural center reimagines community engagement by transforming an old school into a versatile hub for artistic collaboration and expression.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features a central mound courtyard that enhances community interaction and serves as a flexible event space.
02
Incorporates fair-faced concrete and hotched bricks, providing both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
03
Utilizes low-E glass to optimize natural light while minimizing energy consumption and heat loss.
04
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water use in irrigation and facility operations.
05
Employs circular extensions in the design to create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.
The architectural project at the Omul Cultural Center represents a thoughtful intersection of community engagement, historical reverence, and contemporary design principles. Situated in the village of Omul, this project aims to transform the existing primary school into a dynamic cultural hub, fostering creativity and collaboration among its users. The design intricately embraces the essence of the community while creating spaces that encourage interaction, learning, and artistic expression.

Functionally, the Omul Cultural Center is envisioned as a multipurpose facility that caters to various activities: from workshops and exhibitions to communal gatherings and artist residencies. The center is designed with a focus on inclusivity, ensuring that people from all walks of life can come together to engage with art, culture, and one another. Each element of the design is imbued with this purpose, facilitating a continual flow of creativity and collaboration.

A notable feature of the project is its commitment to maintaining a connection to the existing landscape while enhancing the building's functionality. The architects have crafted a layout that integrates indoor and outdoor spaces, aiming to create an environment that feels both inviting and connected to the natural surroundings. One of the highlights is the central mound courtyard, which serves as a social and cultural gathering point, fostering a sense of community and engagement. This design choice is not just aesthetic but also practical, providing a flexible area for events and interactions.

Materials play a crucial role in the architectural approach, and the project incorporates a carefully selected palette that aligns with its values of sustainability and modernity. Fair-faced concrete and hotched concrete form the backbone of the structure, providing durability while allowing for a minimalist aesthetic that harmonizes with the nearby landscape. Targeted bricks are used to offer a contemporary touch that pays homage to traditional building techniques, bridging the past with the present. The use of low-E glass ensures ample natural light floods the interiors while optimizing energy efficiency, enhancing the user experience without compromising on comfort.

The design also prioritizes sustainability, integrating practical features such as rainwater harvesting systems and green roofs. These elements not only reduce the environmental footprint of the center but also contribute to the overall aesthetic of the building, creating lush, green spaces that invite biodiversity. Natural ventilation strategies have been employed throughout the design, promoting fresh air circulation and reducing reliance on mechanical systems for climate control.

Spaces within the center are designed thoughtfully to accommodate various functions. The ground floor features multipurpose rooms that can host workshops, gatherings, and dining experiences, fostering a vibrant atmosphere. The first floor offers private accommodations for visiting artists, providing them with opportunities for reflection and creation in a serene setting. Each space is devised to allow flexibility and adaptation to different uses, reflecting the evolving needs of the community.

Unique design approaches taken in the project include circular extensions that promote flow and connectivity across the site. This strategy not only enhances accessibility but also emphasizes a design philosophy centered on community and nature, culminating in an architectural narrative that speaks to both the unique context of Omul and its values.

Exploring this project offers an insightful look into modern architectural designs and ideas. Visitors are encouraged to delve into the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs of the cultural center to fully appreciate the nuances and elements that contribute to its cohesive vision. Insight into these architectural strategies will provide a deeper understanding of how thoughtful design can serve both the community and the environment effectively. The Omul Cultural Center stands as a testament to what can be achieved when architecture is approached with sensitivity to history, place, and purpose.
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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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