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Community Hub Featuring Perforated Facades and Vertical Gardens Crafted with Natural Materials

Authors:
Eliah Cappi, Shaowen Zhang, Philip Richardson
Community Hub Featuring Perforated Facades and Vertical Gardens Crafted with Natural Materials

Project in-detail

This community hub seamlessly integrates perforated facades and vertical gardens, utilizing a blend of natural materials to create inviting spaces that foster interaction and reflect local cultural narratives.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The facade incorporates a custom pattern of perforated panels that respond to the local climate by optimizing natural ventilation.
02
Vertical gardens are integrated into the design, using hydroponic systems to enhance air quality and promote biodiversity within the urban setting.
03
The use of cross-laminated timber panels not only provides structural stability but also contributes significantly to the building's overall insulation and energy efficiency.
04
Charred wooden shingles are utilized on the exterior, offering both aesthetic appeal and improved fire resistance while honoring traditional building techniques.
05
The project features adaptable spaces that can easily transform between different functions, facilitating community events, workshops, and markets as needs evolve.
The project, referred to as “Contingent Crossing,” is a thoughtfully conceived architectural design that seeks to integrate various functional spaces within a cohesive urban environment. This project represents a modern interpretation of community-centric architecture, promoting accessibility and collaboration among diverse user groups. It has been designed to serve a multifaceted role, functioning not only as a hub for education and commerce but also as a gathering space for various community activities.

At its core, the architecture embodies the idea of crossing various paths—social, cultural, and physical—creating an environment that is dynamic and responsive to the needs of the community. The project facilitates interaction among its users through carefully planned spaces that encourage movement and engagement, ensuring that the resulting experience transcends mere functionality.

The design integrates multiple aspects that are critical to its overall concept. The facade showcases a contemporary approach to design with geometric patterns that draw inspiration from local cultural motifs. This detail not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the building but also serves to connect it with the community's identity, prompting a sense of belonging among its users. The strategic use of concrete enhances the structure's durability while providing a neutral backdrop for the highlighted design features. The incorporation of large glass panels fosters transparency, allowing natural light to permeate interiors and blurring the lines between inside and outside.

Internally, the project is segmented into various spaces that balance public and private functions. Key features include a library, an exhibition space, and a marketplace, strategically positioned to maximize accessibility and visibility. The design emphasizes open circulation routes, promoting spontaneous encounters and collaboration, while also providing quieter zones for study and reflection. Vertical circulation elements, such as open staircases and elevators, facilitate easy movement throughout the building, ensuring that all areas are reachable while creating a sense of connection among the different levels.

In addressing unique design approaches, “Contingent Crossing” prioritizes sustainability through the integration of green spaces. Roof gardens and vertical planting systems reduce the urban heat island effect and contribute to biodiversity improvement in the urban fabric. These spaces not only offer aesthetic benefits but support social interaction and provide quieter areas for relaxation within a bustling city environment.

The project further emphasizes a flexible design principle, recognizing the evolving nature of community needs. Each space is designed to be adaptable, allowing for various uses that can respond to changing circumstances over time. This foresight in design ensures that the architecture remains relevant and effective, facilitating a robust community engagement level across generations.

Overall, “Contingent Crossing” encapsulates a thoughtful blend of function, aesthetics, and sustainability within its design. The various architectural elements reflect a deep understanding of the local context and culture while catering to contemporary urban challenges. To gain deeper insights into this project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation in detail. This exploration will offer a more comprehensive understanding of how this architectural endeavor successfully integrates community needs with striking design elements.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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