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Natural Wood Warmth Meets Flexible Spaces in a Revitalized Cultural Center

Authors:
Timothy Alatorre, Cullen Johnson, Daniel Torres, Jenna Fujitsubo
Natural Wood Warmth Meets Flexible Spaces in a Revitalized Cultural Center

Project in-detail

Employing 3form panels and a steel frame, the revitalized tin-foil factory transforms into a flexible cultural hub that fosters collaboration among artists and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes movable partitions to create adaptable spaces for various artistic activities.
02
Incorporates 3form panels to maximize natural light and transparency throughout the interior.
03
Features a landscaped community garden integrated into the building’s design.
04
Constructed with locally sourced Alder and Ash wood, reflecting regional materiality.
05
Includes dedicated technology training spaces to bridge arts and digital innovation.

### Overview

Located in Cesis, Latvia, the Mango Vinyl Hub project aims to convert an abandoned tin-foil factory into a multidisciplinary creative center. The design integrates the building's historical context while serving as a functional space for various artistic practices. The project intends to cultivate a vibrant atmosphere that draws both local and international artists, tourists, and creatives, encouraging collaboration and innovation in the arts and technology sectors.

### Spatial Composition

The interior layout is meticulously designed to accommodate a diverse range of creative activities. Key features include a community center and auditorium for workshops and performances, as well as studios tailored for artists, musicians, and dancers. The incorporation of technology training and computer development facilities reflects a commitment to blending artistic endeavors with modern advancements. Floor plans depict a segmented yet connected arrangement, with a reception area, café, studios, and exhibition space on the first floor, while the second floor expands to include additional creative studios, fostering an innovative environment.

### Material Selection and Structural Design

The architectural approach to materiality emphasizes a modern aesthetic that remains cognizant of the site’s historical background. Notable materials incorporate 3form Crystal Clear panels for transparency and natural light access, alongside alder and ash wood, which add warmth to the contemporary design. A space frame structure of steel supports expansive open areas while ensuring visual connectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces. This careful selection not only enhances functionality and appearance but also establishes a dialogue with Cesis’s architectural heritage.

Unique design elements include highly adaptable exhibition areas that facilitate a variety of events and workshops through movable panels. Additionally, landscaped outdoor areas surrounding the building promote social interaction and community engagement, further enhanced by integrated dining and leisure spaces. The design prioritizes community involvement, creating an ecosystem that supports both artistic and local economic initiatives.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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