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Railway station featuring aluminum panels and structural glass domes embracing local materials for community engagement

Authors:
Gunnar Eythorsson, Iulia Botorog
Railway station featuring aluminum panels and structural glass domes embracing local materials for community engagement

Project in-detail

This architectural endeavor reimagines railway stations by integrating fluid geometric forms, aluminum panels, and sustainable materials to create vibrant community spaces that honor local culture and history.
5 key facts about this project
01
- Incorporates large glass domes that maximize natural light while promoting energy efficiency.
02
Utilizes locally sourced stone in interior finishes to enhance regional identity and texture.
03
Features community exhibition spaces integrated within the station to showcase local crafts and culture.
04
Employs recycled denim insulation to improve thermal performance with a focus on sustainability.
05
Designs fluid geometric forms that harmonize with the surrounding urban environment while addressing functional transit needs.
This architectural design project focuses on the development of stations along the Trans-Siberian Railway, specifically in Moscow, Kazan, and Ulaanbaatar. The project aims to create functional and aesthetically pleasing transit hubs that facilitate the movement of travelers while embodying the cultural and historical contexts of their respective locations. The architectural approach emphasizes a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, showcasing local materials and reflecting local identities.

The design represents a significant intersection of transportation, community, and culture. Each station serves a dual purpose: not only acting as a transit point for passengers but also as a space for communal gatherings and cultural exchange. This approach underscores the importance of architecture in shaping social interactions and promoting local heritage.

Functionally, each station is tailored to optimize the user experience. The layouts are designed to accommodate high foot traffic while ensuring smooth circulation patterns for both travelers and local visitors. By incorporating large open areas, the designs encourage social interaction and create a welcoming atmosphere. Dedicated spaces for local crafts and cultural exhibits are integrated into the station designs, allowing for community representation and opportunities for local economies to thrive.

Key components of the project include structural innovations and material selections that are rooted in sustainability. In Moscow, the use of robust metal frames and aluminum panels not only enhances durability but also complements the contemporary aesthetic. The extensive use of plywood in finishing creates a warm, inviting interior atmosphere, while large glass domes maximize natural light and help connect the interior to the outside environment.

The Kazan station is notable for its fluid architectural form, which integrates seamlessly with existing structures. This approach highlights the importance of context in architectural design, ensuring that the new construction respects and enhances the surrounding urban fabric. Local stone is incorporated into the interior finishes, creating a tactile connection to the region’s geological identity.

In Ulaanbaatar, the design features dynamic geometric shapes that play with light and shadow, crafting a visually engaging environment. The exterior aluminum panels are strategically employed to create visual texture while maintaining effective weather resistance. Inside, the project incorporates eco-friendly materials, such as recycled denim batt insulation, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability without compromising comfort.

Overall, the design of these stations reflects innovative architectural practices by responding to environmental conditions and cultural contexts. The thoughtful integration of local materials and features, such as community gathering spaces and educational exhibits, gives each station a unique character that fosters a sense of belonging and pride among users.

The architectural project showcases a comprehensive approach that not only addresses transport needs but also enriches community engagement. For a deeper understanding of the architectural strategies employed, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for further insights. This project exemplifies how design can effectively serve both functional and cultural purposes, providing a valuable contribution to the urban landscape of the regions served by the Trans-Siberian Railway.
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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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