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Floating Sanctuary Constructed with Improved Wooden Dougong for Community Resilience

Authors:
Yijia Zhang, Mengshu He, Yishu Yu, Zixu Zhen
Floating Sanctuary Constructed with Improved Wooden Dougong for Community Resilience

Project in-detail

Constructed with improved wooden dougong and designed to float above the urban landscape, the center fosters community engagement while providing a safe haven for those facing discrimination.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes improved wooden dougong to enhance both structural integrity and cultural connection.
02
Features charred wooden shingles for fire resistance and a unique aesthetic.
03
Incorporates extensive glass facades to promote transparency and community interaction.
04
Designed with a modular layout for flexibility in accommodating various community needs.
05
Elevated structure allows for integration with the urban landscape while providing privacy.
The architectural design project centered around an Anti-Discrimination Center in Shinjuku, Tokyo, serves as a multifaceted space that addresses the increasing need for support and community engagement against discrimination, particularly focusing on women's rights. By situating itself in the dynamic area of Shinjuku, the project seeks to harness the vibrancy of urban life while offering a sanctuary for its inhabitants. The structure embodies a thoughtful response to social issues, designed not only as a facility for refuge and support but also as a platform for dialogue and education within the community.

One of the key functions of this architectural endeavor is to create a haven for those affected by discrimination. The design facilitates various activities aimed at empowering individuals and fostering a collective consciousness around issues of inequality and support. Areas within the center include private housing units, communal spaces, and dedicated rooms for workshops and educational seminars, designed to serve a diverse range of community needs. This thoughtful organization underpins the project's overarching goal of providing safety while promoting awareness and understanding among different groups.

At the heart of this project lies its unique architectural approach, which revolves around modularity and adaptability. The use of improved wooden dougong—a traditional jointing system—exemplifies a connection to cultural heritage while incorporating contemporary building methods. This integration allows for structural integrity along with a harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality. The project prioritizes sustainable materials, with wood, glass, and steel forming the backbone of the architectural composition. The selection of wood not only offers warmth and an inviting atmosphere but also aligns with environmental considerations that are increasingly becoming central to modern architecture.

The design incorporates large glass panels that promote transparency and facilitate the flow of natural light into the interior. This emphasis on openness encourages interaction between the building and its environment, enabling the space to feel less like an isolated refuge and more as part of the broader community. Moreover, the transparency in design serves a symbolic function, representing the need for openness and dialogue regarding discrimination issues.

Further enhancing the center's community aspect, the architectural layout includes a variety of communal areas that encourage social engagement. These spaces are carefully crafted to inspire dialogue around discrimination, providing room for both private reflection and public discussion. By accommodating different functions within its modular design, the center can easily adapt to future changes in community needs or social movements. This flexibility in design is a vital aspect of the project's philosophy, ensuring that the center remains relevant and responsive over time.

One of the notable features is the way the building interacts with its surroundings. Elevated elements that float above the ground create distinct pockets of space and a visual connection to the cityscape, facilitating both privacy and a sense of belonging amid the urban hustle. The architectural design successfully integrates technology, incorporating elements that allow for community engagement via social media and information sharing, effectively involving citizens in conversations about discrimination continuously.

As the project unfolds, it emphasizes architectural ideas that reflect social values, providing a clear acknowledgment of the issues at stake. The Anti-Discrimination Center represents a significant architectural statement, positioning itself as an active participant in the social fabric of Shinjuku. This architectural initiative stands to inspire other projects aimed at addressing similar social challenges, showcasing how design can be harnessed as a tool for advocacy and community resilience.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of this project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide further insights into the innovative approaches and thoughtful considerations that underscore the development of the Anti-Discrimination Center. This project is an exemplary case of how architecture can contribute to meaningful social change, fostering awareness and support within communities.
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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
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