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Natural Light-Filled Spaces Enhanced by Translucent Polycarbonate and Reinforced Concrete for a Multi-Functional Venue

Authors:
Rodrigo Zagarzazú, Carolina Güida
Natural Light-Filled Spaces Enhanced by Translucent Polycarbonate and Reinforced Concrete for a Multi-Functional Venue

Project in-detail

The use of translucent polycarbonate and reinforced concrete creates a series of interconnected spaces that maximize natural light and foster community engagement, serving as a versatile venue for exhibitions and events.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent polycarbonate panels enhance natural light while maintaining privacy.
02
Reinforced concrete structure provides durability and an industrial aesthetic.
03
Flexible spaces allow for diverse configurations to meet varying event needs.
04
Vertical connectivity through architectural voids fosters user interaction.
05
Community-focused design promotes engagement through open public areas.

The Riga Expo Center expansion project serves as a pivotal addition to Latvia’s architectural landscape, designed to function as a dynamic venue for exhibitions, conferences, and varied events. This project enhances the center's existing framework while introducing a contemporary approach to architectural design that prioritizes user interaction and flexibility across spaces.

The layout consists of interconnected public areas, auditoriums, and versatile spaces, promoting engagement among visitors. The central public space acts as the focal point, allowing for informal gatherings as well as organized activities. The design incorporates both dedicated auditoriums and adaptable spaces that accommodate a wide range of purposes, enhancing the overall functionality of the venue.

One of the project’s primary design focuses is on transparency and openness. Extensive use of glass and polycarbonate panels promotes natural light and visual connections between the interior and exterior environments. This design choice not only creates a welcoming atmosphere but also encourages a sense of community and interaction among users. The integration of voids within the structure further enhances spatial connectivity and contributes to a well-lit environment.

A notable aspect of the project is its commitment to adaptability. The inclusion of flexible spaces allows for immediate reconfiguration to meet various user needs, from workshops to formal presentations, ensuring that the venue can maintain relevance across diverse events. This adaptive capacity is essential for a modern expo center, catering to the changing demands of the event industry.

The material palette of the Riga Expo Center expansion is carefully considered, featuring reinforced concrete for structural integrity, aluminum for external cladding, and glass to enhance visibility and interaction. These materials not only fulfill functional requirements but also embody a contemporary aesthetic that aligns with the project’s vision.

The innovative combination of these elements sets the Riga Expo Center apart from similar projects. The strategic focus on light, the layering of spaces that encourages flow, and the use of materials that facilitate engagement demonstrate a unique approach to architecture that prioritizes user experience.

For those interested in exploring the architectural details further, a review of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs reveals the comprehensive thought process behind the project. Such insights into the architectural ideas driving this expansion can provide a deeper understanding of its significance within the context of modern architecture.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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