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Dynamic Ground Plane and Concrete Integration Redefining Urban Gathering Spaces

Authors:
Mindaugas Butvila, Darius Kamarūnas, Vytenis Raubickas, Paulius Kliučininkas
Dynamic Ground Plane and Concrete Integration Redefining Urban Gathering Spaces

Project in-detail

A dynamic ground plane enhances user interaction while an innovative concrete structure provides a multifunctional urban gathering space that encourages community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dynamic ground plane integrates drainage elements for effective rainwater management.
02
Concrete structure incorporates angular forms to enhance visual interest and user engagement.
03
Multifunctionality supports diverse community activities within a single cohesive space.
04
Natural light is maximized through strategically placed glass facades and skylights.
05
Integrated tram lines facilitate seamless pedestrian access and connectivity within the urban area.

### Overview
Located in a prominent urban center, the project examines the role of concrete within the urban fabric, emphasizing its structural and aesthetic possibilities. Informed by the surrounding context of historic and contemporary architecture, the design seeks to revitalize the area while providing a multifunctional gathering space that fosters community interaction. The primary intention is to create a responsive environment that invites engagement from pedestrians and residents.

### Materiality and Structural Innovation
The design prominently features concrete as the core material, chosen for its durability and versatility. The main structural elements include:

1. **Concrete Block**: Forms the primary framework, ensuring structural integrity.
2. **Armature Mesh (Black Metal)**: Enhances both visual and functional support, contributing to the industrial aesthetic.
3. **Steel (H-Section, Black Metal)**: Integrates additional strength while reflecting modernist design principles.
4. **Glass**: Incorporated in facades and skylights to maximize natural light and promote visual continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces.
5. **Sand**: Enhances both construction and aesthetics, offering varied textures throughout the site.

### Spatial and Environmental Strategy
The design introduces a dynamic ground plane that consists of a multi-layered grid of concrete and sand, creating a tactile surface that responds to weather and usage patterns. This feature encourages interaction and contemplation. Rainwater management is effectively integrated into the ground plane design, directing runoff through channels to appropriate drainage systems. Furthermore, the circulation strategy facilitates pedestrian movement by connecting to tram lines, enhancing urban vibrancy. Upon entry, visitors encounter a spacious, angular interior that encourages exploration and interaction, designed to host exhibitions and community events.

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

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Competition organisers

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

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