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Curvilinear Facade of Translucent Polycarbonate That Celebrates Cultural Exchange in a Community Laboratory

Authors:
Yulia Sisoeva, Kitchenko Dmitriy
Curvilinear Facade of Translucent Polycarbonate That Celebrates Cultural Exchange in a Community Laboratory

Project in-detail

A vibrant facade crafted from translucent polycarbonate and playful curvilinear forms invites exploration and engagement, creating an adaptive space for cultural events and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The facade incorporates vibrant, translucent polycarbonate panels that enhance natural light while creating a dynamic visual experience.
02
Curvilinear shapes throughout the design challenge traditional architectural forms, fostering a more welcoming environment.
03
The use of wood references traditional Japanese influences, creating a connection to cultural heritage in a contemporary context.
04
Flexibility in interior spaces allows for diverse configurations, supporting a wide range of community activities and events.
05
Cultural references, such as the building's shape resembling traditional footwear, enrich the narrative of popular culture integration.
The POKKURI-HOUSE, located in Okobo, Tokyo, serves as the Tokio International Popular Culture Laboratory, where architecture seamlessly fuses with cultural exploration. This project exemplifies a thoughtful interplay between traditional Japanese design elements and contemporary architectural practices, attracting attention for its unique approach to integrating popular culture within a functional space.

The architecture of POKKURI-HOUSE represents a dialogue between the familiar and the unfamiliar, effectively inviting visitors to engage with the nuances of cultural exchange. The building's design embodies the concept of remixing cultural references, presenting familiar symbols and motifs in an innovative context. This idea not only adds depth to the architectural narrative but also encourages discourse and interaction among users.

Functionally, the POKKURI-HOUSE is designed to host a variety of activities associated with popular culture, including exhibitions, lectures, and community events. The flexible layout accommodates multiple uses, allowing spaces to be repurposed for workshops, presentations, and gatherings. The building features a total of four floors, each with distinct functionalities that support the core mission of promoting cultural dialogue and fostering community engagement.

The first floor welcomes visitors with an expansive exhibition space, which is complemented by a cafeteria area. This design invites guests to linger and interact, promoting an atmosphere conducive to cultural appreciation and enjoyment. Moving to the second floor, an open design studio and workshop area provide a creative space for artists and members of the community to collaborate and innovate. The building continues to facilitate its purpose on the third floor, which houses the library and IT suite, allowing users to access resources that deepen their understanding of popular culture. Additionally, various conference rooms are integrated throughout the structure, enhancing the building's versatility. The fourth floor completes the design with a forum and additional conference spaces, enabling discussions and gatherings that harmoniously connect different cultural aspects.

A closer examination of the architectural details reveals several unique design approaches employed in the construction of the POKKURI-HOUSE. The use of curvilinear forms throughout the structure contributes to a dynamic and visually engaging facade. This design choice contradicts conventional rigid forms, allowing for a more fluid interaction between the building and its surroundings. The colorful facade serves as a canvas that embodies the spirit of Pop Art, incorporating bold patterns that resonate with the theme of cultural reinterpretation. This vibrant exterior is constructed with materials that include steel for structural integrity, polycarbonate panels that ensure abundant natural light while offering translucency, and wood, which reinforces the connection to traditional Japanese architecture.

The architectural elements of the POKKURI-HOUSE further emphasize a commitment to both aesthetic and functional integrity. Generous openings and strategically placed glass elements create visual connections and foster a sense of openness, allowing natural light to permeate the interior. These features not only enhance user experience but also establish a connection with the environment, demonstrating an appreciation for the interplay of indoor and outdoor spaces.

In this architectural project, the integration of cultural symbolism is carefully considered, as various aspects of Japanese tradition are woven into the design narrative. The building's shape is reminiscent of traditional Japanese footwear, which not only speaks to cultural heritage but also evokes a sense of nostalgia among visitors. This thoughtful incorporation of cultural references is a testament to the project’s overall aim of bridging gaps in understanding between different cultural expressions.

The POKKURI-HOUSE stands as an exemplary model of how architecture can facilitate cultural exchange and dialogue. Its design is both a celebration of tradition and a forward-looking exploration of contemporary ideals, making it a significant contribution to the architectural landscape of Tokyo. The architectural plans, sections, and designs offer further insights into the meticulous thought process behind the project, encouraging readers to explore the comprehensive presentation of this culturally rich architectural endeavor. Experience the intricate details of POKKURI-HOUSE and discover the innovative architectural ideas that shape this unique space in the heart of Tokyo.
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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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