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Cultural Hub Featuring Exposed Concrete and Reddish Brick in an Urban Environment

Authors:
Laura Ichim, Ionuț Eduard Militaru, Bianca Alexandra Gavrilă, Călin Laurențiu Burghiu
Cultural Hub Featuring Exposed Concrete and Reddish Brick in an Urban Environment

Project in-detail

This cultural hub seamlessly integrates exposed concrete and reddish brick in a dynamic urban setting, creating flexible spaces that encourage community engagement and artistic collaboration.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The project includes a central courtyard designed to facilitate spontaneous community gatherings and performances.
02
Large glass openings are strategically placed to enhance natural ventilation while maintaining visual connectivity to the surrounding urban landscape.
03
Unique sound-absorbing vinyl surfaces are incorporated in practice rooms to optimize acoustic performance tailored for musical activities.
04
The reddish clay brick detailing pays homage to local architectural traditions, creating a sense of place while enhancing aesthetic warmth.
05
Modular rehearsal spaces are designed for versatile configurations, allowing for a range of activities from intimate practices to larger group sessions.
The project under review is an architectural design known as "STOA," which embodies a thoughtful integration of functionality, community engagement, and modern design principles. Situated in an urban environment, "STOA" represents a versatile and dynamic space intended to foster creativity and collaboration among its users. The essence of the project lies in its role as a cultural hub, designed to accommodate various activities such as music rehearsals, community gatherings, and shared workspace initiatives.

At the heart of "STOA" is the concept of openness and accessibility. The layout is centered around a generous courtyard that acts as both a gathering space and a connector between different functional areas. This courtyard plays a crucial role, not just as a physical space but as a symbolic representation of community interaction and artistic expression. The architectural design encourages passersby to engage with the activities happening inside, creating a sense of visibility that strengthens the connection between the building and the surrounding urban landscape.

The use of materials in this project is another point of interest. The design features a palette that includes exposed concrete, reddish brick, glass, wood, and vinyl. Each material serves a distinct purpose while contributing to the overall aesthetic. The exposed concrete reinforces the building's structural integrity, offering a raw yet elegant finish. The reddish brick adds a layer of warmth and ties the project to traditional building practices, ensuring it resonates with the local context. Large glass elements are thoughtfully incorporated to enhance natural lighting, blurring the boundaries between inside and outside. This transparency not only invites daylight but also fosters a sense of openness that is essential to the community-oriented concept of "STOA." Wood is used extensively, ensuring both comfort and positive acoustic attributes, which are particularly important in a space dedicated to music and the arts. The innovative use of vinyl, particularly in the music hub, allows for durability and sound absorption, further enhancing the functionality of the rehearsal and performance spaces.

Unique design approaches are prevalent throughout "STOA," particularly regarding its spatial organization and adaptability. The architects have designed flexible spaces that can be reconfigured for various uses, enabling the project to accommodate a variety of events and activities without compromising usability. This flexibility is particularly valuable in urban environments where space is often at a premium. Each room within the project is infused with the potential for both collaborative and solo pursuits, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and community-building.

The project's ability to foster social interactions through its design is noteworthy. By creating spaces that invite participation and engagement, "STOA" acts as a catalyst for cultural activities within the community. The careful attention to sightlines and circulation patterns ensures that movement through the building feels intuitive and encourages visitors to explore its many offerings.

For those interested in a deeper exploration of the architectural aspects of "STOA," reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide valuable insights into the project’s intricacies. The architectural ideas behind the design are reflected in every detail, offering a comprehensive view of how the project functions not only as a physical space but as a community-centric venue. Visiting the project presentation will allow for a more thorough understanding of its various components and design philosophies. Such exploration can shed light on the thoughtful decision-making process that has shaped "STOA" into a meaningful addition to the urban landscape.
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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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