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Panoramic Glass Facade Blending Concrete and Timber in a Multifunctional Cultural Hub

Authors:
Ashley Owens, Jamie Schwadel, Ruthie Kuhlman
Panoramic Glass Facade Blending Concrete and Timber in a Multifunctional Cultural Hub

Project in-detail

A panoramic glass facade integrates seamlessly with concrete and timber elements, creating a multifunctional space designed for exhibitions and community engagement in the heart of Riga.
5 key facts about this project
01
A bent A-frame design enhances structural integrity while creating dynamic interior spaces.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide both sustainability and acoustic benefits.
03
Extensive glass facades maximize natural light and visual connectivity with the environment.
04
Charred wooden shingles on the exterior offer durability and fire resistance.
05
Outdoor exhibition areas are seamlessly integrated with the surrounding landscape for community engagement.

# Analytical Report on the Kip Island Expo Centre Architectural Design Project

## Overview

Located on Kipsala Island in Riga, Latvia, the Kip Island Expo Centre integrates modern architectural elements with the historical character of the area. The intent of the design is to foster community interaction while serving both local residents and visitors. By incorporating natural landscapes and contemporary aesthetics, the project aims to create a welcoming space that enhances public engagement and cultural appreciation.

## Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The architectural layout features a multi-layered form characterized by an elongated glass corridor that facilitates circulation among various functional areas. This central spine is instrumental in providing natural lighting and expansive views, promoting a connection between indoor and outdoor environments. The building is organized into distinct programmatic zones, including exhibition halls, auditoriums, and social areas, such as cafés, allowing for adaptable event configurations. This design encourages fluid transitions between diverse uses, accommodating activities ranging from conferences to public gatherings.

### Material Selection and Sustainability Strategies

The choice of materials in the Expo Centre reflects a commitment to durability, aesthetic appeal, and environmental sustainability. The extensive use of glass enhances transparency and accedes ample natural light, fostering a sense of openness. Structural components incorporate concrete and steel, ensuring stability while allowing for architectural flexibility. Timber is utilized in roofing, contributing warmth and referencing local building traditions. Innovative features such as green wall systems promote biodiversity and improve air quality, reinforcing the project’s sustainable ethos. These design considerations not only align with ecological principles but also enhance the overall user experience by integrating nature into the built environment.

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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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