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Perforated Aluminum Cladding and Green Roofs Support a Community-Focused Museum Experience

Author:
Yu Han
Perforated Aluminum Cladding and Green Roofs Support a Community-Focused Museum Experience

Project in-detail

Using perforated aluminum cladding and green roofs, the design transforms a former school into a multifunctional museum, artist residency, and community hub that emphasizes sustainability and historical preservation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Uses perforated aluminum cladding to enhance natural light and airflow.
02
Incorporates green roofs to support biodiversity and environmental sustainability.
03
Features an artist residency program to foster community engagement with the arts.
04
Retains original brick from the former school, preserving historical context.
05
Integrates a carousel into the museum, offering an interactive visitor experience.
The Omul Museum of the Horse is an architectural project situated in North Latvia, within the North Latvia Biosphere Reserve. The project repurposes the existing structure of the Omul Primary School, transforming it into a multi-functional space that accommodates an artist workshop, residential quarters for visiting artists, and a museum dedicated to equine history. This approach to adaptive reuse underscores a commitment to preserving architectural heritage while meeting contemporary needs.

Visual and spatial dynamics are essential aspects of the design. The building features a circular layout that encourages interaction among users and fosters a sense of community. The architectural design incorporates elements that promote transparency, such as the use of perforated aluminum cladding, which allows natural light to penetrate the interior spaces while creating a connection between indoors and outdoors. This design choice not only enhances the aesthetic quality but also promotes energy efficiency.

Sustainable practices are integral to the project's architecture. Green roofs are incorporated to improve environmental performance, offering additional insulation and reducing stormwater runoff. Furthermore, a rainwater harvesting system ensures a sustainable water source for operations, while solar panels supplement energy needs. These strategies exemplify a design ethos focused on environmental stewardship and resource conservation.

Authenticity is preserved through the retention of original materials, such as brick, which adds historical significance to the contemporary design. Exposed wood also reinforces a warm, inviting atmosphere, resonating well with the natural surroundings.

Unique features include the integration of a carousel as part of the museum's exhibits, which provides an interactive element to the visitor experience. This design choice sets the museum apart by merging playful engagement with educational content.

Design outcomes reflect a commitment to functionality and flexibility. The first phase consists of workshop areas and communal spaces, while subsequent phases introduce additional amenities such as overnight accommodations for artists and public exhibition areas. This phased development approach allows for gradual integration of community needs and artistic expressions, enhancing the overall functionality of the museum.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and designs involved, readers are encouraged to explore the project's presentation further. This will provide valuable insights into the innovative architectural ideas that inform the Omul Museum of the Horse.
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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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