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Recycled Steel Facade and Mesh Screens Define a Community-Centric Knowledge Hub

Authors:
Eduardo Estrada, Dayann Calderon, Maria Fernanda Pacheco
Recycled Steel Facade and Mesh Screens Define a Community-Centric Knowledge Hub
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Constructed from repurposed steel with intricate mesh screens, the design establishes a communal setting for knowledge exchange and reflection in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposed steel from demolished structures forms the primary facade, emphasizing sustainability.
02
The central atrium, named "Witnesses Square," serves as a communal gathering zone for interaction.
03
Flexible spatial configurations accommodate a variety of educational programs and workshops.
04
Decorative mesh screens allow for natural light while maintaining privacy and environmental control.
05
A sunken plaza design creates an inviting transition between the building and the surrounding urban area.

## Project Overview
The MA-ROCK-O Knowledge Building is situated in a region historically shaped by conflict, serving as both a memorial and an educational facility. This structure integrates library and exhibition spaces to foster awareness of societal issues, creating a context for community dialogue and reflection.

## Spatial Organization
The design features a central atrium, known as "Witnesses Square," which facilitates communal interaction and educational activities. The building's layout is tiered, guiding visitors from the ground level with public spaces, such as cafes and meeting areas, up through exhibition galleries and into library facilities. The progression through Levels 1 to 5 symbolizes a journey from ignorance to enlightenment, where distinct circulation paths cater to both local visitors and tourists, thereby recognizing the diverse audiences engaging with the space.

## Materiality
Material choices reflect the project's commitment to sustainability and cultural resonance. Recycled steel sheets from demolished buildings form the main façade, symbolizing rebirth, while concrete serves as the robust structural core, grounding the building in its urban context. Decorative metal mesh screens allow natural light to filter through while ensuring privacy and thermal comfort, merging contemporary construction techniques with traditional design motifs. Wooden accents soften the industrial aesthetic, creating a warm interior environment.

The inclusion of features such as a sunken plaza encourages community interaction, while the central atrium is designed for optimal airflow and daylighting, enhancing environmental comfort. The flexibility of the open-plan spaces accommodates a variety of activities, positioning the building as a vibrant hub for cultural engagement and knowledge dissemination.

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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

Open architecture competitions

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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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AIA (American Institute of Architects) invites you to design affordable housing in Denver

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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
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