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Interplay of Textured Concrete and Lush Vegetation in a Cultural Hub

Authors:
Tadej Bevk, Nejc Florjanc, Aljaž Babič
Interplay of Textured Concrete and Lush Vegetation in a Cultural Hub

Project in-detail

Textured concrete pillars and an expansive roof garden seamlessly integrate history and nature, creating a dynamic cultural space in Riga that engages visitors with its past while serving as a vibrant community hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Textured concrete pillars symbolize the Baltic states, enhancing cultural representation.
02
A roof garden integrates local flora, promoting biodiversity and urban greenery.
03
Exhibition spaces encourage interaction with historical artifacts, fostering community engagement.
04
Innovative circulation pathways guide visitors through a narrative of memory and identity.
05
Natural light maximizes transparency and connection to the surrounding urban environment.
The project titled "An Immovable Object" is located in Riga, Latvia, and serves as a multifaceted cultural and community space focused on the exploration of memory and identity. Its architectural design integrates historical narratives into contemporary experiences. The building features a layered structure that consists of three distinct levels, each representing different temporal aspects: the past, the memory, and the present. The design emphasizes interaction with space and encourages visitors to engage with their surroundings in a meaningful way.

One of the key elements of the building is its materiality. The primary materials include concrete, glass, and vegetation. Concrete serves to provide structural integrity and a sense of permanence, while glass is used extensively to create transparent views and enhance natural light within the space. The incorporation of vegetation, particularly in the roof garden, reflects a commitment to sustainability and promotes a connection to nature, allowing visitors to experience a calming atmosphere among urban settings.

The design stands out due to its thoughtful approach to connecting time with space. For instance, the use of vertical pillars, which symbolize the Baltic states, not only serves as architectural supports but also as elements that guide circulation within the building. The unique layout includes a long pathway that connects different levels and thematic spaces, facilitating movement and interaction. The first floor features exhibition areas dedicated to memory and history, allowing visitors to engage with artifacts of the past, while the roof garden provides an area for social interaction and contemplation, marking the present.

Additionally, the architectural design employs innovative solutions to create a harmonious balance between built and natural environments. The roof garden is an example of how nature can be incorporated into urban architecture, promoting biodiversity and enhancing the user experience. By offering visual access to the city while integrating greenery, the project underscores the importance of nature in a built context.

The architectural plans, sections, and details of "An Immovable Object" offer insight into the strategic decisions made throughout the design process. To better understand the architectural ideas and principles that underpin this project, readers are encouraged to explore its presentation and review the various elements that contribute to its overall concept and functionality.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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