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Perforated Aluminum Facade and Green Terraces Transforming Urban Library Experience

Authors:
ISMAEL MARTIN, JORGE LEON, RUBEN RUBERTE, CARLOS SOTO
Perforated Aluminum Facade and Green Terraces Transforming Urban Library Experience

Project in-detail

A modular façade of perforated aluminum and expansive green terraces create a biophilic environment that invites community engagement and fosters learning within a multifunctional library in Casablanca.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated aluminum panels create dynamic light patterns and enhance ventilation.
02
Green terraces integrate nature into the urban library experience.
03
The layout promotes seamless movement between public and private spaces.
04
Flexible workshop areas accommodate diverse community activities.
05
Acoustic considerations ensure a quiet environment for focused learning.

## Project Overview

Situated in Casablanca, Morocco, the multifunctional library is designed to serve as a nexus for public interaction and private study. The intent is to elevate the traditional role of a library by integrating spaces that encourage inclusivity and accessibility, while reflecting the cultural and social dynamics of the surrounding urban environment. The design facilitates a dynamic interplay between various programmatic elements, ensuring that each space serves a distinct purpose while contributing to an overall cohesive experience.

## Spatial Configuration and Circulation

### Massing and Internal Organization

The architectural massing is characterized by a nuanced relationship between solid forms and voids, articulated through a layered façade that enhances the building's visual and spatial complexity. The structural design is anchored at two primary points to ensure both stability and aesthetic harmony. Internally, the library is systematically organized into distinct yet interconnected areas, including lecture rooms, meeting spaces, and relaxation zones. These areas are designed with user comfort in mind, incorporating considerations for acoustics and adaptability. The circulation strategy employs ramps and staircases, enhancing movement between levels while ensuring compliance with accessibility standards.

## Material Selection and Environmental Considerations

The material palette is thoughtfully curated to balance durability and aesthetic appeal. Concrete serves as the primary structural element, while laminated wood is used for interior finishes, imparting warmth and inviting textures. Additional materials, such as ceramic wood and vinyl, enhance both aesthetics and functionality across various spaces. The façade employs perforated aluminum sheets to create intricate light patterns and facilitate natural ventilation, addressing climate control needs effectively. Green terraces contribute to sustainability, supporting biodiversity and reducing energy consumption through natural thermal regulation.

The project articulates a commitment to environmental sustainability, integrating eco-friendly materials and biophilic design principles that foster a connection to nature.

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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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