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Fluid Glass Facade With Reflective Metal Panels Enhances Collaborative Space Functionality

Authors:
Viktor Chukhnov, Chistyakov Aleksandr
Fluid Glass Facade With Reflective Metal Panels Enhances Collaborative Space Functionality

Project in-detail

The extensive use of a fluid glass facade and reflective metal panels creates a visually dynamic environment that fosters collaboration and innovation within a multi-purpose educational hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Extensive use of a fluid glass facade enhances natural light and community visibility.
02
Reflective metal panels adapt to changing urban light conditions for dynamic interaction.
03
Flexible interior layouts support various educational activities and community events.
04
Integrated green roofs promote sustainability and improve indoor air quality.
05
Landscaped terraces provide informal gathering spaces that connect users to nature.

## Overview
Tokyo POP Lab serves as a multi-purpose educational hub located in Tokyo, Japan, distinctly designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and community engagement. This facility features a multi-story structure with a range of spaces tailored for learning, social interaction, and technological innovation. Its architectural design reflects both contemporary aesthetics and function-driven principles, situating itself within the vibrant urban fabric of Tokyo.

## Architectural Form and Materiality
The building’s exterior is characterized by an undulating facade that conveys a sense of movement, symbolizing the ongoing evolution of ideas and collaboration. Large signage displaying "POP Lab" is integrated into the facade, providing visibility while complementing the overall design. Extensive glazing is employed to maximize natural light, creating dynamic interior environments through a deliberate play of light and shadow. Complementing the glass are reflective aluminum panels which respond to the surrounding urban context, reinforcing the modern character of the building. The use of reinforced concrete contributes to the structural integrity, serving as a stable foundation for diverse functional areas.

## Spatial Strategy and User Engagement
The spatial organization prioritizes user experience through deliberate zoning of activities over several floors. The ground floor features an open lobby that serves as a versatile space for exhibitions and events, encouraging spontaneous interactions among visitors. Classrooms, design studios, and conference rooms are purposefully integrated to adapt to various educational methodologies, showcasing flexibility in design. Additionally, dedicated resource areas, such as libraries, foster self-directed learning. Indoor and outdoor green spaces, including landscaped terraces, enhance the overall user experience, promoting a connection with nature throughout the facility.

Sustainability is a core component of the design, featuring green roofs and rainwater harvesting systems that reduce the ecological footprint and enhance occupant well-being. The building is equipped with energy-efficient materials, further contributing to its sustainable objectives.

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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
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