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Kinetic Facade and Steel Waves in a Coastal Cultural Center

Author:
Nada Tarek Mohamed Mohieldin Abdelsattar Khalifa
Kinetic Facade and Steel Waves in a Coastal Cultural Center

Project in-detail

The kinetic facade, inspired by traditional fishnet patterns and crafted from steel, transforms the coastal cultural center into a dynamic focal point that educates visitors about Bahrain's maritime heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Kinetic facade mimics fishnet patterns to enhance natural light and ventilation.
02
Steel structure designed to reflect the movements of water and traditional vessels.
03
Integrated educational spaces dedicated to Bahraini maritime history.
04
Overhanging roof elements provide shade while promoting energy efficiency.
05
Central aquarium serves as an interactive focal point for visitors.

## Project Overview

The design is situated along Bahrain's coastline, aiming to reconnect the contemporary community with the nation's maritime heritage through a recreational and educational facility. By integrating historical elements with modern architectural practices, the project seeks to foster cultural appreciation and enhance community engagement, while also serving as a destination for tourists.

## Conceptual Framework and Spatial Strategy

Inspired by the traditional Bahraini ships, particularly the *Muharrag*, the architectural forms evoke a strong connection to maritime history, while incorporating modern design techniques. The building serves as a cultural hub where visitors can engage with local traditions and maritime narratives. The layout is strategically arranged to maximize views of the water, ensuring a harmonious relationship between architecture and its coastal context. This spatial organization encourages exploration and reflects the dynamics of marine life, as the floor plan promotes a continuous flow of movement.

### Materiality and Kinetic Facade

Material selections for the project emphasize both local relevance and environmental sustainability. Key materials include steel pipes that mimic the ropes of traditional ships, glass for visual connectivity and transparency, and concrete for structural durability. A notable feature is the kinetic facade, patterned after fishnets, which enhances both aesthetics and functionality by promoting natural ventilation and light penetration. These design elements collectively foster an interactive and engaging environment for visitors while remaining attuned to the climatic conditions of Bahrain.

The project's culmination includes a diverse range of facilities, such as an aquarium and exhibition spaces, alongside a roof design that provides shade and energy efficiency. This innovative integration of form and function results in a cohesive architectural expression that celebrates Bahrain's maritime legacy while addressing contemporary needs.

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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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