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Curvilinear Design Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Natural Light for an Engaging Learning Environment

Author:
Dominic Lloyd
Curvilinear Design Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Natural Light for an Engaging Learning Environment

Project in-detail

With its fluid curvilinear form and extensive use of cross-laminated timber panels, the design creates an inviting atmosphere that enhances natural light, setting a captivating stage for collaborative learning.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a bent A-frame structure that enhances spatial dynamics and visual interest.
02
Extensive use of cross-laminated timber panels provides sustainable strength while allowing for a lightweight construction.
03
Charred wooden shingles create a distinct exterior aesthetic while contributing to fire resistance.
04
Large glass elements promote natural lighting and encourage a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
05
Flexible learning spaces are integrated throughout, facilitating diverse educational methodologies and community engagement.
The Glass Academy represents a thoughtful exploration of contemporary educational architecture. This project embraces a modern design philosophy that emphasizes openness, adaptability, and sustainability. Located in an urban setting, the academy aims to serve as a multifunctional hub for learning and collaboration, reflecting the evolving nature of education in the 21st century.

Functionally, the Glass Academy is designed to facilitate a variety of educational activities. The layout encourages interaction among students and educators, fostering a sense of community within the space. At its core, the building features a flexible floor plan that allows for both group learning and individual study. Open areas are complemented by smaller, private spaces, catering to diverse learning preferences and needs. This thoughtful organization not only maximizes the use of space but also enhances the overall learning experience by creating environments that can adapt to different teaching methods and activities.

The architectural design of the Glass Academy is notable for its curvilinear forms, which are visually engaging while serving a practical purpose. The fluid lines of the building help to create an inviting atmosphere that encourages exploration and movement. These forms are complemented by extensive use of glass, which floods the interior with natural light and connects the occupants to the outside environment. The integration of transparent materials serves not just as an aesthetic choice but also contributes to the building's energy efficiency and operational sustainability.

Materiality plays a critical role in the project’s overall success. The primary structural material, Cross Laminated Timber, is selected not only for its strength and durability but also for its low environmental impact. By using renewable resources, the academy aligns itself with modern sustainable building practices. Other materials, including lead-bearing wood for structural support and insulation layers for thermal performance, further contribute to the project’s commitment to sustainability. Internally, plywood finishes create a warm and inviting ambiance, reinforcing the school’s objective of making learning a comfortable and engaging process.

Key elements of the project include its emphasis on community spaces. The ground floor is designed to accommodate flexible use, featuring communal study areas, meeting rooms, and direct access to outdoor spaces. These areas encourage collaboration among students and educators, fostering a culture of shared learning. The second floor includes dedicated spaces for staff, showcasing the project’s recognition of the importance of educator well-being and community.

Unique to the Glass Academy is its approach to blending indoor and outdoor environments. The extensive use of glass not only provides beautiful views of the surrounding landscape but also creates a seamless transition between the academy and its outdoor surroundings. This design strategy is known to enhance learning outcomes, making connections to nature an integral aspect of the educational experience. The building is not merely a structure; it is a living environment that adapts to the needs of its users and their interactions.

The Glass Academy is an exemplary model of modern educational architecture, addressing the changing dynamics of learning in today’s world. By prioritizing flexibility, sustainability, and community, the project serves as a vital resource for its users. For those interested in delving deeper into this innovative project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design elements would provide valuable insights into the unique approaches that define this academy’s architecture. This exploration will highlight how the Glass Academy aims to shape educational experiences through its carefully considered architectural ideas.
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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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