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Hexagonal Facade and Green Roof Integrate Steel and Polycarbonate in Tokyo Community Hub

Author:
Graham Crist
Hexagonal Facade and Green Roof Integrate Steel and Polycarbonate in Tokyo Community Hub

Project in-detail

Characterized by a hexagonal facade and a green roof, this Tokyo-based community hub combines steel and polycarbonate to create versatile spaces for public engagement and collaboration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features a hexagonal facade that enhances natural light penetration.
02
Incorporates a green roof system to promote biodiversity and rainwater management.
03
Utilizes steel and polycarbonate for a lightweight yet durable structure.
04
Designed with flexible interior spaces to accommodate varied community activities.
05
Strategically located to foster interaction with the vibrant urban environment of Tokyo.

## Analytical Report on Tokyo PopLab Architectural Design Project

### Overview

Located in Tokyo, Japan, the PopLab project serves as a multifunctional space aimed at fostering creativity, collaboration, and community engagement through its innovative architectural design. The intent is to create an environment that attracts a diverse user base, including students, professionals, and families. By reflecting modern aesthetic sensibilities and technological advancements, the project is positioned to enhance the urban landscape and promote innovative interactions.

### Structural and Spatial Configuration

The architectural layout incorporates both private and communal areas to support a range of activities. The ground floor functions as an interactive hub, featuring an exhibition hall designed to invite public engagement. Its dynamic façade, characterized by a hexagonal pattern and protruding elements, draws attention and encourages exploration. Intermediate levels are designated for educational functions, including lecture rooms, workshops, and a library, allowing for adaptability to various events and user requirements. Additionally, a rooftop café serves as a communal space with panoramic views, enhancing social interaction among users. The overall configuration emphasizes accessibility and fosters a connection between users and their environment.

### Material Selection and Ecological Integration

Key materials have been deliberately chosen to contribute to the project's identity and functionality. Steel provides the structural framework, ensuring stability and durability. Glass enhances transparency and natural lighting, creating visual connections to the exterior. Polycarbonate elements offer lightweight surfaces that align with the playful aesthetic, while concrete serves as the foundation and flooring material for robustness. Sustainability is addressed through the incorporation of green roof systems that manage rainwater and promote biodiversity. This mindful selection of materials facilitates a dialogue between the building and its urban surroundings, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and ecological responsibility.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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Chair
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Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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