Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Engaging Community Spaces Crafted with Glass Facades and Concrete Frames

Authors:
Alireza Esfandiari, Hilda Houshdar Tehrani
Engaging Community Spaces Crafted with Glass Facades and Concrete Frames

Project in-detail

With its dynamic interplay of glass facades and lush landscaping, the design transforms urban learning into an engaging experience, creating a vibrant community hub for education and cultural exploration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural stability and reduce carbon footprint.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles on the exterior, providing weather resistance while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light penetration throughout the interior spaces.
04
Integrates extensive landscaping elements within and around the building, promoting biodiversity in the urban environment.
05
Creates flexible learning spaces that can easily adapt to different educational and cultural activities.
The Tokyo International Popular Culture Laboratory is a thoughtfully designed architectural project located in one of the most dynamic urban environments in Tokyo, Japan. This building represents a bold step forward in merging educational spaces with cultural engagement, providing a unique venue for exploring and studying popular culture. It serves multiple functions that cater to the educational needs of students while also fostering community interaction and cultural expression.

At its core, the project is designed to promote creativity and collaborative learning. The layout consists of interconnected volumes that create a continuous flow of spaces, allowing for both privacy in learning environments and openness in communal areas. The strategic organization of these spaces encourages movement throughout the building, enhancing social interaction and fostering a sense of community among students and faculty. As such, the architecture aligns closely with its primary aim: to cultivate an engaging educational atmosphere that reflects and supports the cultural vibrancy of Tokyo.

Key features of the building include a large, open gathering space on the ground floor, which acts as a central hub for social interaction. This area is intentionally designed to be welcoming, with an emphasis on transparency and accessibility. Landscaped elements, such as trees and planters, are integrated into the gathering spaces, providing a connection to nature and enhancing the overall experience of the environment. This blend of indoor and outdoor space not only improves air quality but also offers students a pleasant space for relaxation and informal meetings.

The material choices made in the design reflect a contemporary approach to architecture, emphasizing both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Extensive use of glass in the facade allows natural light to penetrate deep into the interior spaces, creating a sense of openness and inviting interactions between the indoors and the urban surroundings. Concrete is chosen for its structural capabilities, while warm wood elements add an inviting touch to the interior spaces, contributing to a comfortable learning environment. Steel plays a dual role, providing necessary structural support as well as creating visual interest through detailed railings and staircases.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. One particularly noteworthy aspect is the interactive facade, which incorporates cultural motifs that resonate with the themes of popular culture. This design element not only attracts the attention of pedestrians but encourages engagement with the building itself, making it a lively addition to the urban landscape. Additionally, the flexibility of the interior spaces allows for various configurations, adapting the building's function to meet evolving educational requirements and community events.

Overall, the Tokyo International Popular Culture Laboratory exemplifies a modern architectural response to the needs of education, culture, and urban life. Its design facilitates an engaging environment where students can thrive, reflecting the rich context of Tokyo and fostering connections to the wider community. For those interested in exploring this project further, it is highly recommended to examine its architectural plans, sections, and designs to capture the full extent of its thoughtful approach to architecture and design.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy