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Conical Steel Structure With Glass Facade Integrates Retail Spaces Within Urban Environment

Author:
Koen Huijs
Conical Steel Structure With Glass Facade Integrates Retail Spaces Within Urban Environment

Project in-detail

A conical steel structure adorned with a transparent glass facade and integrated retail spaces reshapes urban living while providing a multifunctional environment for residents and visitors alike.
5 key facts about this project
01
A conical design allows for a dynamic profile that integrates with the Tokyo skyline.
02
The facade utilizes glass to enhance natural light and provide city views from all interior spaces.
03
Retail areas are incorporated within the structure to foster community interaction and support local businesses.
04
Vertical pathways connect different levels, promoting efficient circulation and accessibility.
05
The structure employs sustainable materials, including a combination of steel and composite elements for reduced weight and increased strength.
The "Parasite" architectural design project represents a progressive response to urbanization challenges, specifically within high-density environments like Tokyo, Japan. This project elevates the principles of vertical living, proposing a new typology that utilizes existing structures as supportive elements rather than hinderances. The design is characterized by an innovative interplay of form, materiality, and spatial organization, designed to accommodate a blend of residential, commercial, and public functions.

The structure features a conical form that transitions to cylindrical elements, creating an engaging silhouette against the skyline. The use of diverse materials, including glass for transparency, steel for structural integrity, and concrete for foundational support, emphasizes the importance of durability and aesthetics in contemporary architecture. The integration of these materials allows for a dynamic facade that celebrates the relationship between the built environment and its surroundings.

Vertical Living and Urban Integration
What distinguishes the "Parasite" project from conventional architecture is its unique approach to urban integration. The design blurs the boundaries between living and working spaces, resulting in a multifunctional environment that caters to the needs of a dense population. The incorporation of retail spaces alongside residential units and office areas encourages community interaction and economic activity at multiple levels of the structure.

The access routes are strategically planned to provide seamless connections between the new tower and neighboring buildings. These pathways not only facilitate mobility within the urban landscape but also promote a sense of continuity and accessibility, essential for high-density living. This architectural approach mitigates the chaos often experienced in ground-level urban environments, positioning the tower as a refuge elevated from the bustling streets.

Innovative Structural Solutions
The "Parasite" project employs advanced structural solutions to support its form while minimizing the footprint on the existing urban environment. By utilizing a combination of vertical columns and cantilevered sections, the design maintains a light disposition that allows for open internal spaces. This strategy also enables the creation of outdoor areas that extend beyond the conventional boundaries, enhancing the living experience within an urban context.

The observational deck, high above street level, not only serves as an attraction but also offers a panoramic view of the surrounding city. This feature exemplifies the project's commitment to enhancing urban life by providing residents and visitors with unique perspectives of Tokyo's skyline.

The overall design of the "Parasite" tower encapsulates a forward-looking vision of urban architecture. By integrating essential living functions with innovative structural approaches and effective material usage, the project addresses the complexities of modern-day city living. For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation of the "Parasite" project.
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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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