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Perforated Metal Facade with Glass and Concrete Elements in a Community-Focused Educational Space

Author:
Wen Bin Liau
Perforated Metal Facade with Glass and Concrete Elements in a Community-Focused Educational Space
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A perforated metal façade and extensive use of glass create an inviting atmosphere in a community educational facility dedicated to tattoo culture and artistry.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated aluminum panels provide natural light while maintaining privacy within the facility.
02
A central void enhances community interaction and serves as a multifunctional gathering space.
03
Extensive use of glass promotes transparency and visibility of activities happening inside.
04
The building's layout integrates interactive art installations, fostering creative engagement.
05
Rooftop venue offers panoramic views, connecting indoor experiences with the urban landscape.

# Analytical Report on the Melbourne Tattoo Academy Project

## Overview

The Melbourne Tattoo Academy is located in the heart of Melbourne, a city noted for its vibrant street art and urban creativity. This facility is designed to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of tattoo culture, serving as an educational hub and a community space that challenges societal perceptions of body art. The architectural intent is to create a platform for dialogue, education, and artistic exploration, highlighting tattoos as a legitimate form of artistic expression.

## Architectural Form and Spatial Organization

The design features a distinct geometric facade that reflects the intricate patterns typical of tattoo art. This exterior is intended to provoke thought and engagement while aligning with the urban artistry characteristic of Melbourne. The building’s internal configuration includes a central void, which acts as a social and interactive core, enabling connections between various functions.

Functional zones are clearly delineated throughout the building to accommodate diverse activities. The ground floor includes an information center and sunken plazas designed for community gatherings. The first floor contains an art gallery and library, providing educational resources for both the public and aspiring tattoo artists. Upper floors are dedicated to workshops and classrooms, promoting skill development and collaboration, while a rooftop restaurant offers a unique perspective of the city and fosters a social environment.

## Materiality and User Experience

Material choices have been carefully selected to fulfill both aesthetic and functional aims. The aluminum façade incorporates intricate perforations that filter natural light while establishing a visual connection with the external environment. Extensive use of glass enhances transparency, promoting openness and encouraging interaction with passersby. Concrete serves as a fundamental element due to its structural integrity and contextual relevance within the urban landscape, complemented by steel elements that support and enhance internal spaces.

Additionally, the design includes interactive components aimed at fostering engagement between users and the environment. Learning spaces and communal areas are strategically integrated to cultivate creativity and collaboration, enhancing the overall experience of visitors and participants alike.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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