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Cylindrical Structure Crafted with Glass and Charred Wood Embracing Community Functions

Authors:
Johan Cheah, Raymond Castro, Christian Pena, Draven Pointer
Cylindrical Structure Crafted with Glass and Charred Wood Embracing Community Functions

Project in-detail

Constructed with a distinctive cylindrical form and a combination of glass and charred wood, the design serves as a multifunctional cultural hub that fosters creativity and community engagement in Austin.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cylindrical shape enhances acoustics for performance spaces.
02
Extensive use of charred wood provides fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to sustainability and structural efficiency.
04
Public outdoor plazas integrate nature with community activities.
05
Flexible collaboration areas foster creative interactions among residents and visitors.
The Austin City Tower is a multifaceted architectural project located in the urban center of Austin, Texas. This design serves as a cultural hub, seamlessly integrating artistic spaces with community functions. Its design reflects the vibrant artistic identity of the city, fostering creativity and collaboration among various stakeholders.

The structure is characterized by a tall, slender cylindrical form that accommodates stacked volumes for multiple activities. These tiers are designated for diverse artistic functions, including performance halls, collaborative workspaces, and areas for residential housing. The building is constructed primarily of glass, steel, concrete, and timber, showcasing a harmonious blend of materials that prioritize both aesthetic appeal and functional utility.

Unique Design Approaches

The Austin City Tower employs innovative design strategies to create a welcoming atmosphere for the community. Its extensive use of glass enhances transparency, allowing natural light to permeate the interior, which aids in creating an open and inviting environment. The design encourages interaction among users, with public areas that serve as gathering spaces for community engagement.

The combination of performance spaces—including a central auditorium and a movie theater—distinguishes this project from typical architectural designs that focus solely on residential or commercial use. These dedicated areas promote cultural activities and contribute to Austin’s reputation as a center for arts and entertainment. In addition to these spaces, the integration of communal housing for artists within the structure emphasizes the project’s commitment to supporting the local creative community.

Functional and Community-Focused Spaces

The architectural design incorporates multiple functional layers within the building. Collaboration spaces are thoughtfully interspersed among performance areas, fostering creative exchanges between residents and visitors. The outdoor plazas and green spaces further enhance the project’s community aspect, providing a venue for public events and social interactions.

The structural integrity of the Austin City Tower is achieved through modern engineering techniques. The use of truss pairs and load distribution systems ensures resilience against environmental factors while also allowing for an adaptable design that can meet various functional requirements. This careful consideration of both design and engineering underlines the project’s practicality and sustainability.

To gain a deeper understanding of the architectural intricacies and planning behind the Austin City Tower, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans and sections available in the project presentation. Examining these elements will provide further insights into the innovative architectural designs and ideas that make this project a noteworthy addition to the Austin 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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