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Illuminated Pod with Insulated Facade Enhancing Urban Nightlife

Author:
Stijn Haak
Illuminated Pod with Insulated Facade Enhancing Urban Nightlife
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A pod with a striking red light and insulated facade transforms Berlin's urban landscape, providing a dynamic venue that redefines engagement with the city's underground techno culture.
5 key facts about this project
01
A modular pod structure allows for easy assembly and disassembly.
02
Fresh air intake is achieved through underpressure, enhancing ventilation.
03
A red light on top signals occupation, blending functionality with design.
04
The project offers access to Berlin's extensive sewer system for public engagement.
05
Insulation reduces street noise, creating a unique auditory environment.

"TECHNO UNDERGROUND" is located in the heart of Berlin, a city known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural significance. The project features a pod concept called "FLOATING HAT," which seeks to enhance the experience of the city's underground techno scene. It encourages public engagement with urban infrastructure, particularly the aspects that are often overlooked, such as the extensive sewer system beneath the streets.

Concept and Visual Identity
The pod stands out during the day as a sculptural form that fits into the urban environment. As night falls, it becomes a source of light, casting yellow beams that brighten previously dark areas. The sound of deep bass accompanies this illumination, creating an engaging atmosphere for those nearby. The combination of visual and auditory elements draws people in, inviting them to explore.

Environmental Strategy
An important part of the design is its environmental approach. The pod uses wind to push out hot air, while underpressure helps to pull in fresh air. This system supports air flow and improves comfort inside the space. A red light at the top indicates when the pod is occupied, providing a clear signal for visitors.

Material Application
The project employs several materials that balance durability and sound quality. An insulated ceiling helps reduce outside noise, creating a more enjoyable environment within the pod. The prefabricated facades made with steel double plating ensure stability and ease of assembly. This modular design allows for the pod to be assembled or disassembled as needed.

Engagement with Urban Infrastructure
Beneath Berlin, the sewer system extends over 10,900 kilometers. "TECHNO UNDERGROUND" acts as a gateway to this hidden world. Visitors can enter the sewers and discover the contrast between the lively nightlife and essential urban services.

This connection between public space and forgotten infrastructure offers a unique opportunity to engage with the city's layers. Visitors are welcomed into an environment that blends culture and utility, encouraging an exploration of Berlin's dynamic underground narrative.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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