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Curvilinear Facades with Sustainable Brick and Transparent Glass in a Vibrant Urban Marketplace

Authors:
Yan Tang, Andrew Tamplin, Cailin Mackey, Lachlan Marshall
Curvilinear Facades with Sustainable Brick and Transparent Glass in a Vibrant Urban Marketplace

Project in-detail

With curvilinear facades crafted from sustainable brick and transparent glass, the design reimagines urban connectivity through a vibrant marketplace, fostering community engagement in the heart of Fortitude Valley.
5 key facts about this project
01
The residential tower features floor plates inspired by a natural leaf shape, promoting unique spatial organization.
02
Urban farming spaces are incorporated within the design, encouraging community food engagement and sustainability.
03
The façade combines preserved brickwork with modern glass elements, balancing historical context and contemporary aesthetics.
04
Curvilinear pathways enhance circulation efficiency, offering inviting movement throughout the mixed-use area.
05
The project utilizes locally sourced materials, reducing its overall carbon footprint and enhancing ecological sensitivity.
The architectural project located in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane, presents a thoughtful approach to urban revitalization, blending contemporary design with the preservation of historical contexts. This project is strategically situated within a vibrant entertainment precinct, aimed at re-engaging the city through enhanced functionality and aesthetic appeal. The design signifies not only a physical upgrade of the urban landscape but also a conceptual shift towards community-centric living and sustainable practices.

The project functions as a mixed-use development, accommodating a variety of commercial and residential spaces. At its core, the design encourages public interaction through a ground-level marketplace, which is integrated with food vendors and retail outlets. This bustling area serves as a social hub, stimulating economic activity while inviting residents and visitors alike to partake in an engaging urban experience. The arrangement of spaces emphasizes accessibility and versatility, with an innovative layout that fosters movement amongst diverse user groups.

One notable aspect of this architectural endeavor is its commitment to sustainability, particularly through the integration of urban farming initiatives. By incorporating greenery directly into the design, the project not only beautifies the environment but also promotes a sense of community responsibility and awareness about food sources. This focus on urban agriculture ties back into broader conversations about ecological stewardship and sustainable urban living, signifying a progressive mindset within architectural practices.

The design methodology is distinct, characterized by organic forms and unique spatial configurations. The residential tower, acting as a landmark within the project, features unconventional floor plates inspired by natural elements, specifically designed to optimize light and views. By implementing a 37.5-degree orientation for each level, the architecture reflects principles found within the Golden Ratio, thus achieving a harmonious relationship between structure and nature. This design choice adds a layer of complexity to the building, allowing for adaptable living spaces that resonate with the surrounding environment.

Materiality is another crucial element in this project, reflecting a balance between modernity and the preservation of historical integrity. The use of robust materials such as concrete and glass provides structural resilience while enhancing aesthetic qualities. Additionally, the integration of original brick façades not only honors the historical context of the site but also contributes to a rich, textured surface that contrasts effectively with contemporary materials. This thoughtful approach to material selection underscores the careful consideration given to the cultural narrative of the area.

Moreover, the project’s overall circulation strategy reflects an understanding of movement patterns within urban spaces, which is essential for fostering connectivity. The design incorporates curvilinear pathways that break away from conventional linear layouts, promoting a more fluid and inviting experience for users. These pathways are adorned with landscaping that not only enhances visual appeal but also serves environmental purposes, contributing to biodiversity within the urban context.

This comprehensive examination of the Fortitude Valley project reveals a sophisticated blend of architectural ideas that prioritize community engagement, sustainability, and respect for historical context all while pushing the boundaries of traditional design. Readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs to gain a more thorough understanding of the innovative approaches harnessed throughout this project. By exploring these elements, one can appreciate the thought and intention behind the creation of a space that aims to enrich urban life in Brisbane.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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