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Exploring Tactile Concrete Surfaces in Subterranean Community Spaces

Authors:
heeyoung lee, Sukho Jang
Exploring Tactile Concrete Surfaces in Subterranean Community Spaces

Project in-detail

Defined by its tactile concrete surfaces and versatile underground spaces, this architecture fosters intimate community interaction through functional design that adapts to various public needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Emphasis on the sensory interaction of rough concrete surfaces throughout the interior.
02
Strategic use of dark metal accents to create dynamic contrasts in light and shadow.
03
Underground configuration enhances intimacy while promoting community use.
04
Unique geometric frames introduce playful spatial dynamics and perception shifts.
05
Flexible design of multi-purpose hall accommodates diverse community functions.

### Overview

"Walk into Concrete, Intimate Immensity" is situated in an urban context, where it serves to enhance community interaction through a thoughtful exploration of concrete as a primary material. The design intention focuses on revealing the unique textural qualities and emotional resonances of concrete, inviting users to engage with the space on a sensory level. The project is structured to respond to common urban site constraints, incorporating multi-level spaces and underground environments that promote a deeper engagement with the architectural experience.

### Materiality and Spatial Engagement

**Materiality:** Concrete plays a central role, emphasizing its durability and adaptability while accentuating its sensory attributes. The design employs darkened metal accents to create contrasting visual dynamics, enriching the interplay of light and shadow across the surfaces. Specialized lighting elements are utilized to enhance these contrasts, further shaping perceptions of the space's architectural configuration.

**Spatial Organization:** The layout of public spaces, such as cafeterias and conference rooms, is strategically positioned underground to evoke intimacy and introspection. This scheme encourages visitors to traverse the building through spacious concrete corridors, echoing the theme of unveiling the intrinsic qualities of concrete. The multi-purpose hall is designed for flexibility, catering to diverse community needs while maintaining visual coherence throughout the facility.

### User Experience and Cultural Reflection

**Tactile Interaction:** The design promotes visitor engagement through various textures and forms, allowing for an exploration of tactile experiences often overlooked in contemporary architecture. Unique visual constructs, including abstract geometric frames, juxtapose with the solid, monolithic concrete, prompting visitors to reconsider the traditional boundaries of weight and lightness.

**Cultural Commentary:** By elevating concrete beyond its structural function, the project invites a re-evaluation of materiality in architecture, stimulating emotional connections that resonate with broader cultural themes. This approach fosters an ongoing dialogue about the perception of built environments and encourages a reflective engagement between the visitor and the architecture, contributing to the evolving narrative of architectural design.

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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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