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Embracing Imperfection With Textured Concrete and Natural Wood in a Cultural Exhibition Space

Authors:
Pui Ying Wu, Gary Chan Kwok Leung, Hoi Kiu Ng
Embracing Imperfection With Textured Concrete and Natural Wood in a Cultural Exhibition Space

Project in-detail

Textured concrete surfaces and detailed wood elements merge to create a cultural exhibition space that celebrates the narrative of ruins while fostering community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Textured concrete surfaces are designed to mimic the aesthetic of historical ruins.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural support while enhancing warmth and texture.
03
The bent A-frame design facilitates natural light penetration and dynamic spatial experiences.
04
Natural stone accents integrate the building with its surrounding landscape.
05
Sustainable practices, such as rainwater harvesting, are incorporated throughout the design.

**Overview**

Located in a context rich with historical remnants, the design project "The Value of Ruins" brings together modern architectural techniques and the essence of ancient structures, particularly influenced by the ruins of Rome. The intent is to create an architectural dialogue that reflects the significance of historical imperfection while incorporating contemporary materiality. The design emphasizes a narrative of decay, resilience, and cultural identity, aiming to inspire a connection between the past and the present.

**Material and Design Expression**

The project employs a variety of materials that underscore its conceptual framework. Concrete serves as the primary material, chosen for its strength and ability to embody natural imperfections over time. This choice reflects the project's overall theme, capturing the aesthetic of ruins through visible flaws and variations in texture. Glass elements are introduced to enhance transparency, fostering visual connections with the exterior environment. Complementary materials such as wood, steel, and natural stone create a dialogue between warmth and industrial strength, enriching the atmosphere within the space.

**Spatial Organization and Flow**

The layout is designed to promote fluid movement and interaction among users. The ground floor features communal areas, including a café and reception zones, organized around naturally flowing paths that guide visitors throughout the space. Upper levels host varied exhibition galleries characterized by diverse ceiling heights and geometries, enhancing the visitor experience with engaging installations and natural light. Circulation is intentionally planned with ramps and staircases that facilitate exploration, while strategically placed openings maximize daylight, contributing to a dynamic and inviting interior environment.

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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

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