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Reflective Glass Facades and Weathered Wood Create Flexible Community Spaces in Urban Environment

Authors:
Alexander Turner, Marta Malinverni
Reflective Glass Facades and Weathered Wood Create Flexible Community Spaces in Urban Environment

Project in-detail

Reflective glass facades meet weathered wood in a design that fosters community interaction and adaptable spaces, seamlessly integrating into the urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Features charred wooden shingles that provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize interior space and promote natural light.
04
Integrates reflective glass facades that blend the structure with its urban surroundings.
05
Promotes community interaction through adaptable, multi-functional spaces tailored for various uses.
The architectural project "Polytropolis" represents a thoughtful approach to contemporary urban living, resonating with themes of adaptability and communal space. Designed as an integrated solution for modern city dwellers, this project emphasizes versatility both in function and form. At its core, "Polytropolis" seeks to bridge the gap between private and public spaces, promoting interaction while addressing the diverse needs of urban communities.

The project embodies a multi-faceted design that showcases a harmonious relationship between the structure and its surroundings. Utilitarian design elements are combined with aesthetic considerations, allowing the architecture to engage with its environment rather than compete against it. The exterior features a series of reflective glass facades that serve dual purposes: they invite natural light into the interior spaces while also mirroring the landscape, strengthening the connection between the building and its context. This interplay of light and reflection enriches the visual narrative, constantly altering the façade's presentation throughout the day.

Functionality is a fundamental aspect of "Polytropolis." The layout incorporates adaptable spaces that can be transformed for various activities. The architectural design includes kiosks and social spaces designed to facilitate communal engagement. These areas support activities ranging from casual gatherings to organized events, underscoring the importance of community in the urban framework. The thoughtful integration of both private and shared spaces creates a fluid environment conducive to diverse interactions among users.

One of the notable aspects of this project is its materiality, which reflects a conscious choice toward sustainability. The use of timber as the primary structural material aligns with environmental principles, offering not only aesthetic warmth but also durability. Steel elements contribute to the project’s stability while allowing for expansive open areas within. The fiberboard floors provide an economical, sustainable alternative that complements the overall design ethos, promoting a careful balance of functionality and ecological responsibility.

"Polytropolis" also stands out for its unique design approach to spatial organization. It prioritizes flexibility, allowing spaces to serve multiple functions. This is crucial in urban settings where residents may require varying uses from the same area at different times. By incorporating movable partitions and modular furniture, users have the freedom to configure their environment based on specific needs, making the architecture adapt to lifestyles instead of imposing limits.

A significant focus is placed on community interaction within the design. By fostering accessible public areas and integrating them into the urban grid, "Polytropolis" encourages residents to utilize these spaces, thereby enhancing social ties among them. This aspect aligns with a growing trend in architecture that prioritizes human interaction and experience, recognizing that community well-being plays a vital role in urban living.

The architectural ideas presented in "Polytropolis" serve as a valuable reference point for future projects. Its responses to contemporary challenges—such as sustainability, functionality, and social connectivity—demonstrate a commitment to forward-thinking design. By effectively balancing these elements, the architectural project positions itself as a model for adaptable living spaces that respond to the complexities of modern urban environments.

To explore the finer details of this project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and a deeper understanding of the innovative architectural designs, readers are encouraged to dive into the presentation of "Polytropolis." By examining these elements, one can gain comprehensive insights into the thoughtful approaches and careful considerations that define this significant architectural endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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