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Illuminated Pod with Insulated Facade Enhancing Urban Nightlife

Author:
Stijn Haak
Illuminated Pod with Insulated Facade Enhancing Urban Nightlife

Project in-detail

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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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

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