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Light Shaft Structure Crafted With Glass And Steel Integrates Tattoo Culture In Educational Facility

Authors:
Bruce Katsipidis, Elaheh Mohamed, Farzaneh Rahgozar
Light Shaft Structure Crafted With Glass And Steel Integrates Tattoo Culture In Educational Facility

Project in-detail

A central light shaft composed of glass and steel illuminates the dynamic spaces of a tattoo academy, fostering creative collaboration and cultural engagement within an educational setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central light shaft enhances spatial dynamics and fosters creativity.
02
Bent A-frame roof design mimics the shape of tattoo needles.
03
Cross-laminated timber construction promotes sustainability and strength.
04
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and a distinct aesthetic.
05
Interactive community spaces encourage public engagement in tattoo culture.
The Melbourne Tattoo Academy is an architectural project located in Melbourne, Australia, designed to serve as an educational space focused on the art of tattooing. This facility exemplifies a contemporary approach to architecture by integrating function, cultural context, and artistic expression within its design. The academy functions as an instructional hub for aspiring tattoo artists and includes public-facing spaces to engage the broader community.

The design utilizes a metaphor of skin to reflect the tattooing process, creating a narrative that intertwines space and artistic practice. By emphasizing natural light through a central light shaft, the architecture aims to provide a dynamic learning environment that fosters creativity and collaboration. Key levels of the building comprise various functional areas, including workshops, classrooms, and public galleries, enhancing user experience and promoting community interaction.

Spatial Dynamics and Unique Design Features

One unique design aspect of the Melbourne Tattoo Academy is its emphasis on fluidity and connectivity among spaces. The layout strategically incorporates bridges and ramps that allow for easy navigation while ensuring visibility between different areas of the facility. The design promotes interaction among students, instructors, and visitors, creating a vibrant educational atmosphere.

A notable feature is the light shaft that penetrates the roof structure, symbolizing both the physical act of tattooing and the infusion of creativity within the academy. This architectural element plays a crucial role in illuminating internal spaces, enhancing the overall experience. The use of materials such as glass, steel, and concrete not only serves functional purposes but also creates a cohesive aesthetic that resonates with the artistic identity of the institution.

Functionality and Community Engagement

The academy is organized to support both individual learning and collaborative projects. The ground floor hosts workshops and a public café, allowing for engagement with the local community and facilitating events that promote the art of tattooing. The upper levels, designed as classrooms and studios, provide dedicated spaces for skill development and artistic exploration.

The project integrates sustainability in its design through efficient material usage and natural lighting, reducing energy consumption while maintaining comfort for users. The architectural design reflects a modern understanding of educational environments, where flexibility and accessibility are paramount.

The Melbourne Tattoo Academy's architectural design embodies a thoughtful response to its cultural context, creating an informative and engaging space for tattoo art education and public interaction. For a comprehensive understanding of its architectural plans, sections, and overall design philosophy, interested readers are encouraged to explore further details and insights about this project.
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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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