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Eroded Granitic Stone And Biophilic Spaces Intertwine To Reimagine Historical Relics As Community Hubs

Authors:
Yun-qiao Lee, Chia-chen Lin
Eroded Granitic Stone And Biophilic Spaces Intertwine To Reimagine Historical Relics As Community Hubs

Project in-detail

Eroding granitic stone patterns blend seamlessly with biophilic design elements to create a community hub that revitalizes a historical site, enhancing visitor engagement and local interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Eroded stone patterns are intentionally designed to reflect the historical significance of the site.
02
The project integrates a silent light tunnel to enhance sensory experiences for visitors.
03
Three distinct unit types offer flexible usage to accommodate diverse community needs.
04
Natural vegetation is incorporated within structures, promoting an eco-friendly environment.
05
Local materials, such as granitic stone and charred wood, emphasize sustainability and context.
The architectural project "Whispering Imprint" is a comprehensive development located at Kimmen Bridge in Kinmen County, Taiwan. This initiative seeks to repurpose a historical wartime relic, converting it into a contemporary tourist destination that preserves its poignant history. The design focuses on creating spaces that engage visitors in a dialogue with the past while fostering community interaction and ecological awareness.

The primary function of the project is to facilitate tourism while serving local residents. It integrates commercial, residential, and public spaces, designed to accommodate various user demographics such as tourists, veterans, and students. By introducing these mixed-use areas, the design aims to revitalize the local economy and strengthen community ties.

The project features a side bridge that spans 150 meters, making it a key infrastructural element. This bridge serves not only as a physical connector between Kinmen and Little Kinmen (Lieyu) but also houses diverse amenities that cater to the needs of visitors and residents alike. The architectural layout proposes three distinct unit types—Unit 1 (30 sqm), Unit 2 (55 sqm), and Unit 3 (85 sqm)—that collectively support flexible usage patterns. Each unit is designed to promote interaction and community engagement.

Unique Design Approaches

A standout feature of the design is the concept of **denudation**, which symbolizes the erosion of barriers between the past and present. This is manifested through architectural elements that reflect natural erosion patterns, enhancing the historical narrative of the site. The incorporation of a "silent light tunnel" creates immersive experiences by emphasizing sensory interactions as visitors navigate through the space. This approach illustrates how architecture can serve as a medium between memory and modernity.

Sustainability is a core principle of the "Whispering Imprint" design. The use of local materials such as granitic stone and steel maximizes structural integrity while minimizing transportation impact. Additionally, vegetation is integrated within the structural design, promoting biodiversity and enhancing the ecological footprint of the project. Such considerations demonstrate a commitment to creating an environmentally responsible architecture that resonates with the surrounding landscape.

Innovative Architectural Elements

The design intricately addresses movement dynamics by accommodating various modes of access, from biking to walking. This multipronged approach engages the community actively, encouraging exploration of the site. Each aspect of the project is coordinated to enrich the overall user experience and create a seamless transition between different spaces.

Visitors and residents are encouraged to immerse themselves in the historical context and contemporary life through thoughtfully designed architectural sections and plans, reflecting the local heritage and community needs. By prioritizing tactile experiences and community engagement, "Whispering Imprint" not only preserves history but also creates vibrant spaces that foster everyday interactions.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of this project, it is recommended to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas to appreciate the full spectrum of design intentions at "Whispering Imprint."
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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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