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Flexible Inflatable Concrete Shells Melding Natural Landscapes Into a Multifunctional Urban Hub

Authors:
Napasorn Opassuksatit, Jiyoon Kim
Flexible Inflatable Concrete Shells Melding Natural Landscapes Into a Multifunctional Urban Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing a flexible inflatable concrete shell, the design seamlessly integrates into the natural landscape while creating a multifunctional hub for transit and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes inflatable concrete technology for structural flexibility.
02
Features translucent concrete for enhanced natural light throughout.
03
Integrates existing mature trees into the design for ecological preservation.
04
Includes modular spaces that promote adaptability for various community functions.
05
Prioritizes light wells in the architecture to optimize energy efficiency.

## Overview

Located within a dynamic urban context, the conceptual design explores the interplay between natural and constructed environments, aiming to establish a symbiotic relationship between architecture and its surroundings. The project reimagines urban spaces as multifunctional areas that serve diverse community needs, functioning both as a public transit hub and a gathering space for cultural exchange and engagement.

### Volume and Spatial Strategy

The architectural expression is characterized by a curvilinear form that reflects natural topographies, creating fluidity within the urban landscape. This design choice challenges conventional geometric configurations while facilitating meaningful interactions with adjacent buildings. Inclined roofs enhance the overall dynamism of the structure and provide sheltered areas for communal activities. Incorporating strategically placed light holes, the design allows natural light to permeate the interior, resulting in dynamic illuminated spaces throughout the day.

The spatial organization creates a distinct hierarchy, articulating functional zones such as the platform level for transit services and the exhibition level designed for public events and gatherings. Circulation pathways are intentionally designed for intuitive navigation, echoing the organic movement found in natural settings while seamlessly integrating landscaping features such as preserved tree canopies and curvilinear plant beds.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The project employs a range of materials that emphasize both aesthetics and functionality. Durable concrete forms the primary structural element, enhanced by the innovative use of inflatable concrete technology, which enables flexible and dynamic architectural shapes. Translucent concrete contributes to the visual quality of the space by allowing light to filter through while maintaining privacy.

In aligning with sustainability goals, the design incorporates green materials and incorporates natural landscaping elements, reinforcing ecological balance and promoting biodiversity. This commitment to environmental responsibility and innovative construction methods underscores the design's distinctive character while fostering a sense of community and connectedness with the natural 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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