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Natural Timber Facade With Transparent Glass Blocks Enhances Visitor Experience At Functional Service Station

Author:
Youngil Kim
Natural Timber Facade With Transparent Glass Blocks Enhances Visitor Experience At Functional Service Station

Project in-detail

Showcasing a natural timber facade complemented by transparent glass blocks, the service station integrates seamlessly into its geological context while providing essential services for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Natural timber facade incorporates locally sourced materials to blend with the surrounding environment.
02
Transparent glass blocks enhance daylighting while providing views of the landscape.
03
The design prioritizes visitor flow through clear wayfinding and spatial organization.
04
A planted roof contributes to biodiversity and sustainability within the site.
05
Precast concrete elements support structural integrity while reducing construction time.
The architectural design project for a service station merges functional utility with a thoughtful aesthetic response to its surrounding environment. This project exemplifies a contemporary approach towards creating service areas that cater to users while enhancing their interaction with the natural landscape. It is strategically located at the tectonic divide between the North American and Eurasian plates, integrating with the geological features that define the region.

The service station serves as a vital infrastructure element, accommodating visitors who seek rest and refueling for their journeys. It incorporates distinct zones for various functions, including a visitor center, café, and community engagement areas, facilitating a seamless flow of movement for patrons. The layout emphasizes efficiency, ensuring that essential services are organized for easy access. The building’s design aims to forge a connection between users and the environment, enhancing both their experience and enjoyment of the location.

Unique Materiality and Aesthetic Integration

One key aspect that differentiates this service station from conventional designs is its innovative use of materials. A combination of Steel Metal Composite and precast concrete has been employed to ensure structural stability and durability, necessary for enduring local weather patterns. The integration of glass blocks in the façade allows for abundant natural light, creating a welcoming atmosphere. This design choice not only serves an aesthetic purpose but also enhances energy efficiency.

Additionally, the extensive use of natural timber battening within the interior adds warmth to the space, contrasting the industrial feel of the exterior. Lightweight concrete blocks facilitate tactile interaction while maintaining a cohesive design language. The planted roof, featuring local flora, actively contributes to the building's ecological footprint, reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainability.

Functional Layout and Visitor Experience

The project’s functional layout is carefully crafted around user experience. The ground floor features the visitor center as the primary hub, providing essential information and resources. Adjacent to this area, the café serves as a social space where visitors can unwind and interact. Community engagement areas are strategically placed to offer facilities for rest and refreshment, ensuring that visitor needs are prioritized.

Directional cues throughout the service station guide users effectively, promoting a sense of orientation within the space. Entry points have been designed to enhance accessibility, encouraging smooth transitions between various service areas. This dual focus on functionality and user-centered design contributes to an overall positive visitor experience.

The service station stands as a modern architectural interpretation of a roadside facility, integrating thoughtful design with practical requirements. Its unique approach to material selection and layout serves to enhance not only the functionality of the space but also its connection to the surrounding environment.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. This deeper insight will provide additional context regarding the innovative architectural ideas and methodologies applied within this project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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