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Microperforated Steel Panels and Colorful Voids in a Multifunctional Tower

Authors:
Belén Pérez montelongo, Camila Giaconi, Sabrina Do Canto
Microperforated Steel Panels and Colorful Voids in a Multifunctional Tower

Project in-detail

Microperforated steel panels and colorful voids define a new tower in Puebla de Fantova, offering versatile spaces for hostels, coworking, and residences.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower incorporates microperforated steel panels for light filtration and privacy.
02
Colored glass voids enhance natural lighting and contribute to the building's aesthetic.
03
Setbacks in the perimeter pillars create a visually slender structure.
04
The design features distinct programmatic spaces identified by specific color themes.
05
Terraces and double-height spaces add dimension to the overall internal layout.

The design is located in Puebla de Fantova and features a tower that stands out in its landscape. It serves as a new landmark while engaging with existing elements in the area. The design centers around functionality with a free floor plan organized around a central service core. This setup promotes a flow of movement throughout the spaces and allows for a variety of uses.

Design Concept

The tower presents a solid exterior with perforations that create a balance between solid forms and empty spaces. These voids offer visual interest and allow natural light to enter, enhancing the experience inside. Terraces and double-height areas add complexity to the design, drawing inspiration from the organic shapes often associated with Gaudí. The use of color is also significant, contributing to the identity of the building.

Materiality

The building is constructed with thoughtful material choices. The perimeter wall consists of a 20 cm cellular block wall finished with plaster, backed by an equipped wall that measures 40 cm. Colorful voids are filled with glass that allows light to filter in while adding a visual element. The structural framework includes slabs, beams, and reinforced concrete pillars, ensuring stability. Perimeter pillars have setbacks, contributing to a slender appearance from different angles.

Programmatic Elements

Various spaces within the tower are identified by color, which reflects their specific functions. Green areas represent hostels, promoting a sense of calm. Blue zones are designated for coworking, encouraging energy and productivity. Residences are marked by purple, focusing on comfort and well-being. These color choices work with the arrangement of free floor plans, which enhance the sense of openness and connectivity.

Microperforated steel panels are used to control the entry of light, providing both illumination and privacy. This careful attention to detail in the design further establishes a strong architectural identity while enhancing the overall user experience. The interplay of elements throughout the tower creates a distinctive environment that responds to both the setting and its intended purpose.

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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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