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Geometric Forms in Reinforced Concrete and Copper Celebrate Cultural Narratives Along the Siberian Railway

Author:
Desiré Apelgren
Geometric Forms in Reinforced Concrete and Copper Celebrate Cultural Narratives Along the Siberian Railway

Project in-detail

Geometric forms crafted from reinforced concrete and enhanced by copper elements embody a dialogue with the Siberian landscape, serving as a visitor center that fosters cultural exchange along the Trans-Siberian Railway.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geometric design elements are inspired by the Russian Constructivist movement.
02
The use of reinforced concrete allows for large, open interior spaces.
03
Copper frames enhance thermal performance while adding aesthetic value.
04
Large glass windows create seamless connections to the surrounding landscape.
05
Modular spaces are designed for flexible usage and user engagement.

## Project Overview

The El Lissitzky House is a contemporary architectural proposal integrated into a network of visitor centers along the Trans-Siberian Railway in Siberia. The design aims to enhance visitor engagement with the surrounding landscape and regional cultural narratives while fulfilling functional requirements within a vast and diverse natural context.

### Spatial Configuration and User Interaction

The architectural design prioritizes a modular approach, emphasizing interconnectivity among various elements to accommodate the changing needs of visitors. This system of interconnected forms supports flexibility and encourages social interaction throughout the building. The layout facilitates seamless transitions between interior and exterior spaces, allowing for exploration and connection with the landscape. The strategic use of large windows enhances the visitor experience by framing panoramic views and flooding interior areas with natural light.

This attention to spatial organization also includes dedicated areas for exhibitions that highlight local art and cultural themes, alongside well-planned staff spaces that support operational efficiency without detracting from the public experience. The overall design fosters an immersive environment where visitors can engage meaningfully with both the interior and the surrounding context.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration

Materials are central to the concept of the El Lissitzky House, chosen for their durability and aesthetic harmony. Reinforced concrete serves as the primary structural material, providing the robustness required for the building's innovative form. Large expanses of glass create a visual and physical connection to the outdoors, while copper frames enhance thermal performance and add a contemporary aesthetic. The use of granite flooring introduces a tactile element, grounding the design in its natural context. Additionally, local wood varieties are incorporated in specific areas to introduce warmth and a human scale to the interior spaces.

The design also considers the seasonality of the environment, allowing the building to respond dynamically to varying climatic conditions. This is reflected in the interplay of light and shadow, which not only contributes to the aesthetic experience but also promotes passive solar lighting and natural ventilation throughout the year.

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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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