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Dual-Skin Façade Using Chromium Plating Enhances Community Engagement in Contemporary Cultural Hub

Authors:
Mateusz Halek, Kamil Schynol
Dual-Skin Façade Using Chromium Plating Enhances Community Engagement in Contemporary Cultural Hub

Project in-detail

Integrating a double-skin façade of glass and chromium plating, the architectural design creates an open and adaptable environment that fosters community interaction while serving as a dynamic cultural laboratory.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a media façade capable of projecting dynamic visuals to engage the public.
02
Utilizes a dual-layer design for enhanced energy efficiency and natural ventilation.
03
Features extensive use of glass for maximizing daylight and spatial perception.
04
Incorporates a central atrium that fosters community interaction and flexible use.
05
Employs chromium-plated columns that reflect the surrounding environment and enhance modern aesthetics.

# Architectural Report: Tokyo International Popular Culture Laboratory

## Project Overview
Located in Tokyo, the International Popular Culture Laboratory serves as a contemporary hub designed to engage with the dynamic landscape of popular culture. The intent is to create a multifunctional space that facilitates creative work, learning, and public interaction, reflecting the city's vibrant urban context while incorporating technological advancements.

### Spatial Configuration
The design features a two-volume structure that fosters an open environment. A central atrium functions as a communal focal point, promoting interaction and flexibility. Pathways throughout the space are deliberately crafted to guide visitors, allowing for exploration of various functional areas, including cultural exhibits and workshop spaces.

### Material Integration
Material selection emphasizes a balance between traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern construction methods. Key materials include:

- **Glass Panels**: Enhancing transparency and natural light, contributing to an open interior ambiance.
- **Chromium-Plated Columns**: These reflective surfaces create a sense of spatial awareness and introduce modernity into the design.
- **Wood Finishes**: Chosen for their warmth and tactile quality, reinforcing the simplicity and natural beauty intrinsic to Japanese design.
- **Concrete Elements**: These provide structural support while enabling dynamic geometric forms.

This combination of materials delineates different functional zones within the building, articulating the contrast between public and private spaces.

### Interior User Experience
Interior spaces are organized to enhance user experience, merging the physical environment with its occupants. Versatile workshop areas accommodate a range of activities, from art creation to digital media projects, fostering creative development and cultural exploration. Natural light is optimally integrated through skylights and strategically placed windows, ensuring a stimulating atmosphere conducive to creativity.

### Façade and Sustainability Features
The building's exterior façade merges sustainability with advanced technology. Notable features include:

- **Media Facade**: Utilizing digital technology, the façade adapts throughout the day, enhancing visibility and public engagement.
- **Sustainable Lighting Systems**: Energy-efficient LED lights are embedded within the façade, minimizing energy usage while providing aesthetic enhancement.

#### Energy Efficiency Solutions
The implementation of a double-skin façade enhances energy efficiency and natural ventilation, allowing the design to respond dynamically to solar orientation. This approach optimizes thermal comfort and reduces reliance on air conditioning.

### Community Interface
Designed as a focal point for community engagement, the laboratory is anticipated to host activities and exhibitions related to popular culture, facilitating cultural exchange and a sense of community involvement. These elements underscore the building's role not only as a research facility but also as a venue for public interaction.

### Distinctive Aspects
The commitment to merging traditional Japanese values with contemporary technological solutions characterizes the Tokyo International Popular Culture Laboratory, encapsulating the essence of Tokyo’s popular culture while advancing modern architectural practices.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
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The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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