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Perforated Steel Facade and Transparent Spaces Shaping a Community-Centric Tattoo Academy

Authors:
Fang Xu, Frank Zhang
Perforated Steel Facade and Transparent Spaces Shaping a Community-Centric Tattoo Academy

Project in-detail

A tilted pyramid of perforated steel and expansive glass fosters transparency and community interaction within a dedicated educational space for tattoo artistry.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building's façade features extensive perforations that enhance natural light while maintaining privacy.
02
Community galleries are integrated into the design to encourage public engagement with tattoo art.
03
The tilted pyramid shape symbolizes the permanence of tattoos and redefines conventional architectural forms.
04
Vertical circulation includes both stairs and an elevator, optimizing accessibility across multiple levels.
05
Materials such as steel and glass create a modern aesthetic that contrasts with traditional tattoo environments.
The Iceberg Tattoo Academy is an architectural design project that emphasizes education in the field of tattoo artistry. It is conceived as a multifunctional space that provides workshops, classrooms, and public interaction areas. The building’s form resembles a tilted pyramid, symbolizing the permanence of tattoos while allowing it to stand out within its environment. This architectural choice facilitates a dialogue around body art, challenging preconceived notions and societal stigmas associated with tattoo culture.

The project integrates various functional spaces effectively. The basement level features a grand staircase, fostering accessibility from the street level. The first level acts as the reception area and includes a public gallery, aimed at engaging the community and inviting visitors to explore the academy's offerings. The upper levels—comprising specialized classrooms and workshops—are designed to accommodate different artistic practices, ensuring that learners have access to diverse techniques and experiences in tattoo artistry.

Unique Architectural Approaches

The Iceberg Tattoo Academy sets itself apart through its distinctive geometric form and its focus on community engagement. The tilted pyramid structure not only addresses aesthetic considerations but also symbolizes a transition in perceptions surrounding tattoos. The design encourages openness and interaction, which is rarely found in traditional educational institutions. Extensive use of perforated steel sheets in the façade offers visual interest while maintaining functional aspects, such as natural light infiltration and thermal performance.

The building also emphasizes transparency through its use of large glass windows. These features connect the interior of the academy to the community, fostering an inclusive atmosphere that demystifies tattoos and promotes dialogue between artists and the public. This approach helps in breaking down barriers and counters the stigma associated with tattoo culture.

Functionality and User Experience

The layout of the Iceberg Tattoo Academy is carefully orchestrated to optimize circulation and usability among students and educators. Each level is interconnected through a vertical circulation shaft, including stairs and elevators, ensuring efficient movement throughout the building. The design reflects an understanding of how educational environments impact learning and collaboration. The integration of communal spaces, like the public gallery and reception area, reinforces the academy’s mission to create a welcoming environment.

The choice of materials further enhances the project’s functionality and identity. The use of concrete provides structural resilience, while whitewashed finishes promote a clean and modern appearance. These material choices work in conjunction with the architectural form, creating cohesive design outcomes that serve both aesthetic and practical purposes.

For additional insights and a more in-depth understanding of the Iceberg Tattoo Academy's architectural plans, sections, and design approach, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. This will provide a comprehensive look at the architectural ideas that shape this unique educational facility.
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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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