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Perforated Facade and Reclaimed Materials Shape A Communal Library and Memorial in Casablanca

Authors:
Patryk Krol, Mateusz Binkowski
Perforated Facade and Reclaimed Materials Shape A Communal Library and Memorial in Casablanca

Project in-detail

A perforated facade composed of reclaimed materials forms the backbone of a library and memorial in Casablanca, designed to promote cultural dialogue and reflection in the aftermath of past violence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated facade allows natural light to filter while providing visual interest.
02
Main library's design mimics the shape of an explosion to evoke historical context.
03
Reclaimed materials from past incidents create a direct connection to the site’s history.
04
Flexibly designed spaces accommodate various community educational needs.
05
Light wells enhance the interior atmosphere, promoting reflection and engagement.

## Concept Overview

Located in Casablanca, Morocco, the project is designed as a memorial and cultural library intended to foster understanding among different belief systems in the wake of the 2003 and 2007 terrorist bombings. It aims to provide a space for learning, reflection, and communal healing, addressing the misconceptions that can lead to extremism.

## Spatial Strategy

The building's spatial organization responds to its urban context and historical narratives. The main entrance is thoughtfully positioned to create a dialogue between the city's past and present. Central to the layout is the "Bombing Room," which reflects the shape of a bomb explosion, symbolizing the impact of violence while encouraging introspection on its consequences. The building includes flexible learning areas designed to adapt to community needs, promoting interaction among visitors and encouraging a sense of belonging.

## Materiality and Symbolism

The use of materials throughout the project is intentional and thematically relevant. Concrete is employed for structural integrity, embodying permanence and the stark reality of loss. Glass elements enhance transparency, inviting light and echoing openness to dialogue. Steel components contribute to the sense of strength and resilience. Additionally, the incorporation of reclaimed materials from the bombed sites serves as a powerful symbol of rebirth and renewal, reinforcing the project's commitment to reconciliation.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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