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Corten Clad Tower Integrating Vertical Form and Community Spaces in Rugged Terrain

Authors:
Harun Sabljaković, Sabina Filipović
Corten Clad Tower Integrating Vertical Form and Community Spaces in Rugged Terrain

Project in-detail

Nestled within rugged terrain, the corten-clad structure ascends vertically, offering panoramic views while fostering community with adaptable spaces designed for both interaction and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure utilizes corten steel for its weathered appearance, enhancing its visual connection to the landscape.
02
Large glass fenestrations provide unobstructed panoramic views while ensuring natural ventilation within the space.
03
The design incorporates modular elements that allow for flexible interior configurations, adapting to various community needs.
04
Sustainable construction practices are emphasized through the use of locally sourced materials and efficient assembly techniques.
05
A rooftop terrace offers a unique vantage point, encouraging interaction with the surrounding natural environment.
The architectural project known as "reCONNECT" stands as a thoughtful example of modern design harmonized with its natural surroundings. Situated within a rugged landscape, possibly echoing the scenic features typical of Iceland, this project embodies a vision of enhancing the connection between people and the environment. With its tower-like structure, reCONNECT attracts attention while ensuring that it integrates effectively with the contours of the land.

At its core, the project represents an exploration of how architecture can facilitate communal interactions while also allowing for personal moments of reflection. It is designed to cater to various functions, from social gatherings to solitary contemplation, thereby fostering a sense of community and individual connection. The central design aim is to create spaces that not only serve practical purposes but also evoke emotional responses from their users through their meaningful engagement with the setting.

The form of the building is distinctive, featuring a vertical orientation that emphasizes its presence within the landscape. This upward projection is complemented by a unique façade constructed from corten steel. The choice of this material is both aesthetic and functional; corten steel develops a natural patina over time, allowing the structure to resonate with the shifting seasons and environmental conditions it faces. This aging process not only reinforces the building's relationship with the site but also adds a layer of storytelling, as the surface becomes a canvas reflecting the passage of time.

Light and transparency play crucial roles in the design. The incorporation of large glass windows invites natural light into the interior spaces while providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This thoughtful integration allows occupants to connect visually and spatially with the outdoors, blurring the boundaries between inside and outside. The dimensions and placements of these openings follow an intentional design logic aimed at optimizing daylighting and ensuring adequate ventilation, factors that greatly enhance the overall user experience.

The interior layout of reCONNECT is oriented towards flexibility and community engagement. It features a range of spaces equipped for various uses, from informal meeting areas to more intimate settings for individual reflection. By prioritizing these communal areas, the design promotes interaction, encouraging users to engage with one another. The layout culminates possibly in a rooftop terrace, which serves as a vantage point for appreciating the expansive views that the site offers. This connection to the landscape is a fundamental aspect of the project, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and functional purpose.

Sustainability is a key consideration embodied in the architectural choices made throughout the project. The modular construction techniques employed not only allow for efficient assembly but also minimize construction waste, reflecting a commitment to environmentally responsible practices. By using renewable materials and highlighting the project’s ecological aspects, reCONNECT reinforces the importance of sustainable design within contemporary architecture.

The uniqueness of this project lies in its multifaceted approach to addressing the need for harmony between built and natural environments. Its design utilizes materials that evolve with time, creates a dialogue between public and private spaces, and emphasizes a connection to the geographical context. Such deliberate choices illustrate how architecture can transcend mere functionality, becoming a medium through which deeper connections with nature and community are established.

For those interested in delving deeper into the specifics of reCONNECT, I encourage an exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and designs. These materials provide further insight into the thought processes and architectural ideas that underpin this project, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of its vision and execution. Engaging with these elements offers a richer perspective on how architecture can influence our interactions with both the built and natural worlds.
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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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