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Fluid Form Crafted From Glass and Concrete Supporting Urban Community Interaction

Author:
Jan Ekart
Fluid Form Crafted From Glass and Concrete Supporting Urban Community Interaction

Project in-detail

Characterized by its curvilinear form and extensive glass facade, the structure facilitates community engagement through versatile public spaces while integrating sustainable materials such as concrete and metal.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear exterior form enhances visual dynamism while promoting airflow.
02
Extensive use of glass maximizes natural light and visibility into public areas.
03
Integrated landscape elements create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
The structure's orientation optimizes solar gain for energy efficiency.
05
Flexible interior layouts accommodate various community-focused activities and events.

## Overview

Located in Adelaide, Australia, the Adelaide Spire is designed to enhance urban identity and promote cultural expression within the city's landscape. Occupying a pivotal intersection that connects various urban elements, the structure functions as a public space aimed at fostering community interaction. By integrating modern architectural principles, it serves both as a cultural hub and a catalyst for social engagement.

## Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The spatial organization of the Adelaide Spire focuses on creating fluid connections between distinct functional areas. The ground floor features an open public space equipped with seating, an outdoor bar, and a stage for live performances, which collectively foster communal activities. The design encourages foot traffic and promotes socialization by seamlessly linking Victoria Square to the north, enhancing accessibility and movement throughout the area.

In designing the upper levels, distinct zoning for public and private functions was prioritized. Accessible areas for exhibitions, workshops, and art classes are interspersed with private studios and meeting rooms, thereby nurturing a balance between community engagement and individual creativity. This reflective organization supports collaborative opportunities across various artistic practices.

## Materiality and Sustainability

A careful selection of materials has been integral to the architectural identity of the Adelaide Spire. The primary use of concrete provides structural integrity while allowing for organic shapes. Expansive glass facades facilitate natural lighting, reducing reliance on artificial sources and enhancing the connection to the surrounding environment. Metal framing complements the modern aesthetic and ensures the stability of the glass curtain wall.

Sustainability considerations are embedded within the design; the north-side orientation optimizes sunlight exposure, which minimizes energy demands for heating and lighting. Additionally, landscaping elements are incorporated to soften the urban materials and foster biodiversity, contributing to an environmentally responsive architectural solution.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
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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
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