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Cultural Hub Featuring Brick Facades and Expansive Glass Atriums for Community Engagement

Authors:
Daniel espezua rodriguez, Oscar Becerra Vargas, Brandon Andía Concha
Cultural Hub Featuring Brick Facades and Expansive Glass Atriums for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

This community-centered cultural hub seamlessly integrates brick facades and expansive glass apertures, creating a dynamic space that fosters interaction and celebrates local music culture through innovative design and versatile functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The cultural hub incorporates a unique bent A-frame design that enhances spatial dynamics and encourages natural ventilation throughout the building.
02
Extensive use of cross-laminated timber panels not only supports structural integrity but also contributes to a sustainable approach in the construction process.
03
The project features specialized soundproofing techniques within the music facility to optimize acoustics for recording and performance environments.
04
Charred wooden shingles adorn the exterior, providing a distinctive, weather-resistant finish while blending the structure harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.
05
An innovative layout allows for adaptable spaces that can transform easily to accommodate various community events, ensuring flexibility in usage over time.
The project to be analyzed focuses on the Creative Block and Mango Vinyl Hub, two interconnected facilities designed to enhance the urban fabric of Cesis by catering to cultural and recreational activities. The architecture of these two establishments is rooted in the principles of community engagement and functionality, representing a blend of modern design with respect for historical context.

The Creative Block serves as a multifaceted community center designed to accommodate a range of activities, such as arts, wellness, and social interaction. With its central location, it functions as both a gathering space and a hub for various educational and recreational initiatives. The design creates inviting public spaces where individuals can come together, fostering a sense of community through shared experiences. Pathways meander throughout the site, connecting different areas and encouraging spontaneous interactions among visitors. The circulation design facilitates easy movement while offering visual connections among various functions, such as the youth center and wellness workshops.

The architectural language employed in the Creative Block emphasizes transparency and accessibility, making effective use of materials that blend with the locality. Incorporating brick as a primary material reflects the historical character of the region while ensuring the structure's longevity. Large glass facades are utilized to invite natural light into interior spaces, promoting a welcoming atmosphere and allowing visitors to engage with the activities happening inside. The incorporation of greenery is strategic, with landscaped areas designed to enhance the experience of the site and promote outdoor activities, further integrating nature into the urban environment.

Similarly, the Mango Vinyl Hub embodies the cultural essence of music and creativity in the community. Focused on supporting the production and appreciation of vinyl records, the building's design draws on an industrial aesthetic that reflects both its functions and the artistic nature of music production. The unique roofline not only serves aesthetic purposes but also enhances the interior environment by allowing ample natural light to flood the spaces. Inside, the arrangement encourages engagement, whether through coworking spaces, community meeting rooms, or dedicated areas for interactive exhibits, making the hub a vibrant center for collaboration and innovation.

Unique design approaches are evident in the flexibility of spaces within both projects. Multipurpose rooms are capable of accommodating a variety of events—from exhibitions to workshops—ensuring that the facilities can adapt to the evolving needs of the community. This adaptability is vital for maintaining relevance and ensuring usage over time, addressing different demographic needs as they arise.

Another notable aspect of the design is the emphasis on cultural expression. The Mango Vinyl Hub not only serves as a production facility but also a celebration of music's role in community identity. The design encourages educational programming that engages the public with music history and production processes, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art form. The focus on vinyl culture highlights a specific niche that enriches the local cultural landscape, providing opportunities for both learning and creative expression.

Throughout these projects, the architects have skillfully navigated the balance between contemporary design and historical context. By using locally relevant materials and integrating thoughtful landscaping, the buildings resonate with their environment while serving practical functions. The architecture effectively addresses the needs of the community, not only in providing space for various activities but also in creating an environment that encourages social interaction, creativity, and cultural engagement.

Readers interested in the nuances of the architectural design will find additional insights by exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and overall architectural designs presented. These detailed components reveal the thoughtful consideration behind the project, showcasing how the architects have interpreted and addressed the complex relationship between space, function, and community culture. For a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas that underpin the Creative Block and Mango Vinyl Hub, reviewing these elements will yield invaluable perspectives on the project and its aspirations for the Cesis community.
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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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