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GRC Panels and Natural Light Define a Versatile Auditorium in Riga

Author:
Miguel Pimentel
GRC Panels and Natural Light Define a Versatile Auditorium in Riga

Project in-detail

Utilizing GRC panels and expansive glass facades, the design creates a functional auditorium with enhanced acoustics and natural light, serving as a versatile space for community events and exhibitions in Riga.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes GRC panels for enhanced durability and design flexibility.
02
Incorporates a natural light optimization strategy through extensive glass facades.
03
Features a dynamic auditorium layout with retractable seating for versatile use.
04
Integrates advanced acoustical treatments tailored for varied performance needs.
05
Designed with eco-friendly systems, including rainwater harvesting and natural ventilation.

### Project Overview

The Kip Island Auditorium is planned as a multifunctional exhibition center in Riga, designed to enhance the existing exhibition spaces and improve user experience through innovative spatial organization. The intent is to create a facility that accommodates a variety of events while responding effectively to its urban context.

### Spatial Strategy and Functional Layout

The design emphasizes accessibility, with a layout oriented toward the center of the site, facilitating connections from main roads and pedestrian pathways. The configuration features a large auditorium complemented by several smaller spaces, promoting a cohesive flow between diverse areas. This arrangement allows for flexible use, as the main auditorium incorporates retractable seating systems to adapt to different event requirements. Additionally, the ground floor includes a spacious lounge/foyer and various auditoriums designated for small meetings and larger presentations, integrating necessary service areas such as cloakrooms and restrooms close to the main functions.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The proposed materials are selected for both their modern aesthetic and durability. Key materials include concrete for structural strength, extensive glass facades for natural light, and glass reinforced concrete (GRC) panels for thermal insulation alongside visual appeal. Steel elements provide reinforcement throughout the structure. Sustainable design features include natural ventilation strategies, aimed at reducing reliance on mechanical systems, and a rainwater harvesting system to manage water efficiently. The design adheres to National and European building standards, aligning with contemporary sustainability goals.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
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
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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