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Cultural Center Featuring Transparent Concrete and Roman Brickwork Within a Modern Urban Fabric

Authors:
Dario Cipelletti, Giuseppe Boldini
Cultural Center Featuring Transparent Concrete and Roman Brickwork Within a Modern Urban Fabric

Project in-detail

Nestled in the heart of Rome, this cultural center seamlessly blends transparent concrete and traditional Roman masonry, creating a multifunctional space that invites community engagement while honoring the city’s rich architectural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The building utilizes transparent concrete to create walls that allow natural light while maintaining structural integrity.
02
A central atrium serves as a dynamic gathering space, enhancing the flow of movement throughout the facility.
03
The design incorporates the ancient Roman masonry technique of opus reticulatum, blending contemporary aesthetics with historical craftsmanship.
04
Green integration includes strategically placed outdoor areas that blur the line between the interior and exterior environments.
05
The project emphasizes pedestrian circulation, with curated pathways that guide visitors through both functional and contemplative spaces.
The Poetry Hall project in Rome represents a thoughtful integration of contemporary architecture with the city’s rich historical context. This architectural endeavor serves not just as a structure but as a cultural hub, designed with the intent to foster community engagement and reflection while celebrating the literary and artistic heritage of the region. The design encapsulates a space that is flexible and multifunctional, allowing for various activities such as exhibitions, performances, and communal gatherings.

Functionally, the Poetry Hall is structured to accommodate diverse uses, reflecting the needs of the community it serves. The layout consists of several key areas that cater to public interaction and artistic expression. The ground floor serves as a dynamic entry point, where visitors are welcomed into multifunctional spaces designed for events and exhibitions. Access is prioritised to ensure inclusivity, with thoughtful circulation patterns guiding users through the various spaces seamlessly.

The spatial organization of the building is a critical aspect of the design. It includes open areas that foster dialogue and connectivity while also allowing for quieter zones dedicated to contemplation and study. This balance between communal interaction and individual reflection is a signature characteristic of the project. The atrium, positioned centrally, plays a significant role in the layout, providing natural light and a sense of openness. This feature not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also creates an inviting atmosphere for visitors.

One of the unique design approaches employed in the Poetry Hall is its use of materials that resonate with both modern techniques and traditional craftsmanship. Polished concrete panels form the building's exterior, offering a contemporary look while ensuring durability. This choice is complemented by clever integrations of opus reticulatum, a masonry technique that nods to the historical context of Roman architecture. Additionally, the use of transparent concrete panels throughout allows natural light to penetrate deep into the structure, enriching the experience of the spaces within and connecting them to the exterior environment.

The architectural design also features significant attention to detail in the facade treatment. Striking patterns and textures emerge from the careful selection of materials, ensuring that the surfaces reflect the historical narrative of the city while meeting contemporary expectations of design. Aluminum structural elements provide necessary support and contribute to the building's modern appearance.

The Poetry Hall's architectural plans, sections, and details reveal an emphasis on sustainability and functionality. Green spaces are interspersed throughout the site, allowing for a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments. This careful consideration enhances the ecological footprint of the project, promoting an environment where nature and architecture coexist harmoniously.

In summary, the Poetry Hall stands as a testament to the thoughtful marriage of historical inspiration and modern design principles. The project encapsulates a vision that resonates with the cultural richness of Rome while meeting the needs of its diverse community. For those interested in exploring the intricate architectural ideas and designs of the Poetry Hall, a detailed presentation provides a deeper look into the architectural plans and sections that define this unique project. Engage with the elements of this architectural undertaking to appreciate the nuances and thoughtful decisions that contribute to its overall character.
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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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