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Multilayered Composite Facade Built for Resilience and Community Living

Authors:
Jin Li, Shuxin Chen, Xiangzhong Zheng, Jiatong Wu
Multilayered Composite Facade Built for Resilience and Community Living

Project in-detail

Crafted with a multilayered composite facade that enhances resilience against harsh climates, the design serves as a vibrant community hub, promoting interconnected living through sustainable materials and innovative spatial arrangements.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design employs a multilayered facade for enhanced thermal performance and aesthetic complexity.
02
An innovative use of charred wooden shingles provides both durability and a distinctive visual texture.
03
The incorporation of cross-laminated timber panels reduces carbon footprint while promoting efficient construction methods.
04
A flexible spatial configuration allows for dynamic uses, fostering community engagement and interaction.
05
The structure is strategically positioned to maximize natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
C-TOPIA is an architectural project that embodies a forward-thinking vision for a future inhabited by humanity in the aftermath of global conflict. Set against a backdrop of rugged, icy landscapes, this design explores both the physical and conceptual dimensions of urban life following a metaphorical rebirth. The architecture itself serves as both shelter and a reflection of the human experience, presenting a multifaceted structure organized around three core elements: the brain, the body, and the city. Each of these elements encapsulates a different facet of existence and is meticulously crafted to promote sustainability, community, and technological advancement.

The project’s design is characterized by its fragmented form, suggesting an intricate layering of spaces that reflects the complexities of modern life. The structure rises prominently, drawing the eye and creating a dynamic skyline. The upper section, representing the brain, is designed to foster intellectual engagement. With extensive use of glass, this area allows natural light to permeate the space, emphasizing transparency and clarity. The design encourages a fluid exchange of ideas, positioning the brain not only as a physical component of the structure but also as a metaphor for cognitive and creative processes.

Central to C-TOPIA is the body section, which stands as a testament to utility and the physical aspects of survival. This portion of the design is more mechanical in nature, encompassing practical elements that prioritize durability and functionality. Materials such as reinforced concrete provide the necessary strength to withstand the harsh climates, while composite materials may offer additional insulation and flexibility suited for varying environmental conditions. The careful consideration of the body section does not sacrifice aesthetic value; rather, it integrates seamlessly with the upper levels, reinforcing the idea that survival and intellectual pursuits must coexist harmoniously.

At the foundation of the structure lies the city, a communal space that embodies social interaction and cooperative living. This area is designed to reflect a microcosm of society, where inhabitants can engage with one another in public spaces that promote connectivity and shared experiences. The architecture incorporates features that encourage communal use, transforming traditional perceptions of shared living. The thoughtful layout and open spaces work in tandem to create an inclusive environment, where individuals can thrive collectively while maintaining their unique identities.

C-TOPIA stands out for its unique design approaches that evoke a dialogue between past and future. Its layered organization speaks to the intricate interplay of individual and collective experiences, highlighting the importance of both in shaping a sustainable urban environment. The integration of advanced technologies further enhances the project’s potential for resource efficiency and adaptability, ensuring that inhabitants can meet their needs within a supportive framework.

The project's emphasis on sustainability cannot be overlooked. By utilizing renewable energy sources and optimizing natural resources, C-TOPIA reflects a wave of contemporary architectural philosophy that prioritizes environmental consciousness. This alignment with ecological principles serves not only to minimize the structure's carbon footprint but also to inspire a broader movement toward sustainable living practices in future urban developments.

C-TOPIA invites viewers and potential inhabitants to reflect on their own relationships with themselves, others, and the environment. It is an architectural exploration that transcends mere structure, aiming to redefine how we envision and experience urban life in times of upheaval. To fully appreciate the depth of this project, including its architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to delve further into the project presentation. Engaging with these elements provides valuable insights into the architectural ideas that underpin C-TOPIA, promising a more profound understanding of its vision for an innovative future.
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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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