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Hidden Gardens Within Concrete Structures for Community Engagement

Authors:
Roman Lavalle Lavalle, Mayra Torres
Hidden Gardens Within Concrete Structures for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Concrete forms intertwine with hidden gardens to create a unique community space that fosters artistic expression through poetry and public engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Concrete blocks reflect ancient Roman construction techniques while maintaining modern durability.
02
An underground bridge enhances connectivity between distinct site sections.
03
Hidden gardens promote biodiversity and provide tranquil spaces within the urban environment.
04
The design integrates natural light through strategic glass placements to enhance public spaces.
05
Community engagement is prioritized through flexible areas for artistic expression and collaboration.

## Overview

Dissimulō: Rome Concrete Poetry Hall is situated in a historically rich area of Rome, serving as a public venue that integrates artistic expression through poetry into the urban fabric. The design intent is to facilitate community engagement and cultural dialogue, addressing contemporary urban issues while maintaining respect for the site's historical significance.

### Spatial Strategy

The structure comprises four distinct vertical levels that promote accessibility and interaction among diverse user groups. The organization of space is as follows:
- **Level 1**: The entry level provides multiple access points for the public, inviting initial engagement with the site's objectives.
- **Level 2**: Functions as an underground corridor connecting separate sections, designed to enhance interaction.
- **Level 3**: Houses administrative offices and community gathering spaces intended for educational and collaborative activities.
- **Level 4**: Features secluded gardens that serve as quiet retreats, allowing visitors to reflect and engage with artistic experiences free from urban disturbances.

### Materiality and Architectural Integration

Concrete serves as the primary structural component, chosen for its durability and aesthetic capabilities, while glass elements maximize natural light and connect interior spaces with the exterior environment. A notable feature includes the use of specially designed concrete blocks that evoke ancient Roman construction methods, contributing to both visual rhythm and structural stability. Green roof systems enhance thermal performance and biodiversity, while natural stone pavers create tactile pathways, contrasting with the smooth surfaces of concrete areas. The design responds to the surrounding urban context, promoting movement throughout the space and encouraging public exploration by mitigating sensory overload.

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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
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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