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Cultural Hub Featuring Repurposed Brick and Transparent Glass in a Historic Urban Setting

Authors:
Onea Ioana Alexandra, Nistor Raluca, Hirleata Stefania Daniela, Tirca Radu George
Cultural Hub Featuring Repurposed Brick and Transparent Glass in a Historic Urban Setting

Project in-detail

Nestled within the historic landscape of Cesis, this cultural hub seamlessly blends repurposed brick structures with transparent glass elements and integrated greenery, creating an inviting space that nurtures community creativity and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The project repurposes a former manufacturing facility, preserving its historical significance while adapting it for contemporary use.
02
Transparent glass walls are strategically integrated to maximize natural light and create visual connections between indoor and outdoor spaces.
03
A unique "Chamber of Stairs" serves both as a circulation element and a communal gathering space, fostering social interactions.
04
The design incorporates green spaces throughout, enhancing biodiversity and providing areas for relaxation amid the urban setting.
05
Metal mesh walkways allow for elevated views of the surroundings while maintaining a lightweight and open design aesthetic.
The architectural project known as the Mango Vinyl Hub presents a thoughtful exploration of contemporary design situated within the historic environment of Cesis. This project emphasizes a seamless integration of modern functionality with traditional contexts, aiming to serve both the local community and the cultural landscape of the city. The design represents an innovative approach to spatial organization that prioritizes interaction and accessibility, making it a vital resource for various artistic and social activities.

Functionally, the Mango Vinyl Hub operates as a multidisciplinary cultural space, designed to accommodate music, art, and community events. The layout comprises interconnected areas that facilitate both individual pursuits and collective engagement. Key elements include a vibrant public square that acts as a central gathering point, inviting visitors to participate in various activities or simply socialize within the space. This area, enhanced by thoughtfully chosen materials such as patterned local tiles, establishes a welcoming atmosphere that encourages community involvement.

Important aspects of the architectural design include the so-called "Chamber of Stairs," which serves as a pivotal feature for vertical movement within the hub. This feature not only provides access to different levels of the building but also curates social interaction, making the staircase a focal point for gatherings and informal exchanges. Complementing this, the incorporation of hanging walkways allows for fluid movement between buildings while offering unique perspectives of the surrounding environment.

A significant commitment to sustainability is evident in the project through the integration of green spaces throughout the site. These areas not only enhance the aesthetic quality of the hub but also contribute positively to the local ecosystem. The project thoughtfully combines built and natural environments, promoting a harmonious existence that enriches the user experience.

From a material standpoint, the mango Vinyl Hub employs choices that resonate with both modernity and local traditions. The use of brick, a nod to Cesis's historical architecture, grounds the hub in the context of its surroundings, while the incorporation of metal mesh and glass introduces contemporary elements that enhance natural light and visibility. Concrete forms the structural backbone of the project, ensuring durability and adaptability.

A unique design approach employed in this project is the seamless dialogue between existing structures and new construction. By repurposing historical buildings, such as transforming a manufacturing facility into usable creative spaces, the hub respects Cesis's architectural heritage while adapting to contemporary needs. This thoughtful layering of history and modernity reflects a comprehensive understanding of the role architecture plays in shaping community identity.

The architectural designs emphasize connectivity, not only among the individual spaces within the hub but also with the broader urban fabric. The strategic arrangement of public and private zones fosters a sense of community while offering individuals the choice of engagement or solitude. This nuanced approach to spatial dynamics encourages users to explore and interact organically.

For those interested in delving deeper into the Mango Vinyl Hub's design and its functional capabilities, examining the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs will shed light on the project’s innovative ideas. The thoughtful integration of these architectural elements illustrates how this project exemplifies a harmonious blend of community-focused design and respect for historical context. Engaging with the project presentation will provide further insights into the intricacies of this architectural undertaking, enriching the understanding of how modern architecture can positively impact urban spaces and community life.
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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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