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Illuminated Steel Structure Enhancing Social Connection in Public Spaces

Authors:
Ajhan Skenderoski, Marina Simoska
Illuminated Steel Structure Enhancing Social Connection in Public Spaces

Project in-detail

A deconstructed diamond structure illuminated by laser emitters transforms public space in Berlin, promoting social interaction while maintaining necessary physical distance for users.
5 key facts about this project
01
Deconstructed diamond form creates a unique spatial experience.
02
Steel bars serve as both structural support and visual elements.
03
Integrated laser emitters illuminate the interior surfaces.
04
Encourages user personalization with audio and light equipment.
05
Designed to fit seamlessly into Berlin's vibrant public spaces.

The Dancing Diamond is an installation located in Berlin that responds to the challenges of public space use during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is designed to foster social interaction while also promoting safety. The project features a deconstructed diamond shape that provides a balance of openness and containment, addressing the need for human connection within a contemporary urban setting.

Structure and Materiality

The primary form of the structure is a deconstructed diamond, creating varied spatial experiences for users. The edges are made from steel bars, which provide strength and add a modern touch. These bars have integrated laser emitters that light up the inner surfaces of the space. This illumination creates interesting patterns and serves as a visual barrier, enhancing both safety and aesthetic appeal.

User Interaction

A significant focus of the Dancing Diamond is user engagement. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own audio and light equipment. This ability to personalize the environment allows for creativity and interaction while maintaining physical distance. The design invites users to shape their experience, highlighting the importance of personal expression in public spaces.

Public Context

Positioned in popular areas of Berlin, the Dancing Diamond aims to enhance the city's public spaces. It seeks to address immediate health concerns while also encouraging ongoing social connections among individuals.

The way light bounces off the structure creates a dynamic atmosphere, transforming the area into a lively space for movement and performance.

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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

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