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Reflective Glass Facade Merging Concrete Stability with Community Engagement

Authors:
Efthymia Katsarou, Eirini Sgouridou
Reflective Glass Facade Merging Concrete Stability with Community Engagement

Project in-detail

With a captivating double façade of reflective glass that seamlessly integrates concrete stability, this innovative space invites community interaction and personal reflection within a thoughtfully designed memorial environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a double façade that enhances both transparency and energy efficiency.
02
Reflective surfaces throughout the project create dynamic visual interactions with natural light.
03
The structure utilizes a blend of concrete and glass to balance stability with openness.
04
Interactive installations are integrated into the exhibition spaces to engage visitors on a personal level.
05
The landscaping is purposefully designed to soften the built environment, promoting a seamless connection with nature.
The architectural design project "Reflections of Memories" is a thoughtfully crafted exploration of urban space, identity, and the human experience. This project presents a venue that serves as both a public gathering place and a contemplative environment. Constructed with a commitment to transparency and interaction, the architecture aims to reflect the multifaceted nature of memories, allowing visitors to engage in personal reflection while fostering communal connections.

At its core, the project represents a synthesis of personal and collective identities within an urban context. The design emphasizes a community-oriented approach, encouraging visitors to not only inhabit the space but to engage with it on a deeper emotional level. This dual focus of private introspection and public interaction is central to the project's function, which includes areas designated for exhibitions, social gatherings, and contemplative experiences.

The architectural form is characterized by a notable double-façade, which introduces a fluid interaction between the interior and the exterior environment. The transparent qualities of the glass façade invite natural light into the space, while also allowing passersby to glimpse the activities within. This design choice fosters a sense of openness and invites the community to participate in the narrative of the building.

Material selection plays a crucial role in the overall aesthetic and functionality of the project. The use of glass facilitates a feeling of lightness, creating an environment that feels both airy and inviting. In contrast, concrete elements provide a sense of stability and permanence, grounding the space in the urban landscape. Steel serves structural purposes as well as enhancing the modern characteristics of the design. Reflective surfaces throughout the project cleverly utilize natural light to create a dynamic atmosphere, further engaging visitors as they move through different areas of the building.

Attention to detail is evident in the spatial organization, which has been meticulously planned to support diverse activities. The entry and reception area serve as a welcoming threshold, directing visitors towards various exhibition spaces designed for dynamic interaction. Adjacent to these exhibition areas, a café provides an informal gathering spot that accentuates social connections. This thoughtful arrangement reflects a deep understanding of how individuals experience architectural space in both public and private contexts.

What sets "Reflections of Memories" apart is its approach to architecture as an experiential medium. The project invites visitors to navigate through a series of layered emotional experiences, moving from open, airy spaces to more intimate, reflective areas. The variable transparency of the glass façade allows for interactions between those inside and outside, creating a living dialogue that intertwines personal experiences with the surrounding urban environment. This unique design philosophy not only enhances the user experience but also cultivates a sense of shared identity among visitors.

The integration of landscaping elements within the architectural design contributes significantly to the overall ambiance. The careful selection of flora softens the built environment and helps to blend the structure into its surroundings, reinforcing the connection between nature and architecture. This relationship is essential in creating a tranquil space conducive to reflection and social interaction.

The architecture of "Reflections of Memories" stands as an eloquent testament to contemporary design, bridging the gap between personal and communal experiences. Its thoughtful approach to materiality, form, and spatial organization showcases innovative architectural ideas that prioritize emotional engagement and community interaction. By exploring the project presentation further, readers can delve into the architectural plans, sections, and designs, uncovering the intricate details that contribute to the project’s rich narrative and its role within the urban context.
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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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