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Modular Spaces Crafted with Colorful Polycarbonate and Reinforced Concrete for Engaging Community Interaction

Authors:
Amanda Huang, Chiyin Lee, Shiyun Wang
Modular Spaces Crafted with Colorful Polycarbonate and Reinforced Concrete for Engaging Community Interaction

Project in-detail

Colorful polycarbonate panels and modular studio units create an adaptable environment that fosters collaboration and creativity, making it an ideal space for cultural production and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular studio units allow for customizable configurations based on user needs.
02
The use of colorful polycarbonate panels enhances light diffusion while providing aesthetic appeal.
03
An automated transport system efficiently moves studio units and artworks within the facility.
04
Elevated platforms create dynamic viewing areas for exhibitions and public engagement.
05
Integrates a cultural learning center, promoting creativity among diverse age groups.

## Overview

The Pop Culture Factory is a proposed architectural design that aims to address contemporary shifts in popular culture and media. It is envisioned for a vibrant urban setting, such as Tokyo, Japan, and is intended to create an environment that nurtures collaboration and creativity among diverse creators. The design acknowledges the rapid evolution of content production and its accompanying audience, emphasizing flexibility and adaptability in its spatial organization.

### Spatial Strategy and User Engagement

Central to the design is the creation of adaptable spaces where interaction and experimentation can flourish. The building features modular studio units that can be easily reconfigured, catering to varying user needs and promoting an environment conducive to the fast-paced demands of modern media. Public and private zones are thoughtfully balanced, with lower levels designed for community interaction and upper levels facilitating individual creative processes. Elevated platforms extend opportunities for public engagement by providing vantage points for exhibitions, thereby fostering a connection between creators and their audience.

### Material Selection and Performance

The architectural aesthetic is defined by bold geometric forms and an expressive color palette, utilizing a diverse range of materials to enhance both visual impact and functional performance. Reinforced concrete serves as the primary structural framework, providing durability. Large expanses of glass allow natural light to enter the building, supporting transparency and visual connectivity to the creative activities within. Steel elements support cantilevered designs while ensuring a lightweight structure. To introduce vibrancy, colorful polycarbonate panels adorn the facade, facilitating creative expression through diffused light. Additionally, wood is incorporated in interior spaces to create warmth and texture, contributing to an inviting atmosphere.

The design includes flexible exhibition spaces that can accommodate both temporary and permanent displays, promoting the dynamic exchange of ideas. An automated car lift system enhances operational efficiency by simplifying the transport of studio units and artworks. The comprehensive program also features amenities such as lecture halls, cafes, communal working areas, and a children's learning center, catering to a diverse range of users and fostering intergenerational creativity.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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