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Perforated Concrete Shells Enhancing Urban Connectivity Through Sustainable Design

Authors:
Martino Hutz, Bart Chompff, James Park
Perforated Concrete Shells Enhancing Urban Connectivity Through Sustainable Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing perforated concrete shells to create dynamic light patterns, this transport hub fosters community engagement and connectivity within the urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated concrete shells create dynamic light effects and enhance ventilation.
02
Ramps facilitate seamless transitions between levels, promoting accessibility.
03
Multi-functional spaces accommodate various community activities and events.
04
Landscaped areas integrate natural elements, improving the surrounding microclimate.
05
Sustainable materials are utilized to optimize durability and reduce environmental impact.

## Overview
Located within a bustling urban environment, this project serves as a pivotal exchange for public transportation while fostering connections among commuters and local residents. The design centers on a functional hub that prioritizes accessibility and social interaction, reflecting its role as a communal gathering space. The concept emphasizes both utility and aesthetic coherence, integrating with the existing urban fabric.

## Spatial Configuration and Circulation
The structure comprises three interlocking shells that each fulfill distinct functions while collectively enhancing the overall spatial experience. This configuration allows for a range of uses, from multi-purpose areas to dedicated commuter facilities. Access is facilitated by strategically placed ramps, which connect various levels, including a lower ground housing conference rooms and multi-functional spaces, and an elevated viewing platform that offers expansive views of the surrounding cityscape. This thoughtful circulation design promotes fluid movement and engagement with the urban environment.

## Material Use and Sustainability
Reinforced concrete serves as the primary material, characterized by thin profiles that are both efficient and aesthetically pleasing. The design incorporates:
- **Cement** as the binding agent,
- **Aggregate** from natural sources to ensure mass and integrity,
- **Steel reinforcement** for added strength under tension, and
- **Sheet metal** used in specific areas to maintain durability without compromising slender aesthetics.

This strategic selection of materials not only underscores a commitment to sustainability but also illustrates innovative engineering practices that enhance the structure's functionality while minimizing environmental impact. The integration of vegetation within the design further contributes to the microclimate, providing natural shade and promoting ecological benefits.

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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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