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Responsive LED Partitioning in a Bronze-Accented Meditation Space

Authors:
Matteo Fraticelli, Motomi Morii, Martin Lee
Responsive LED Partitioning in a Bronze-Accented Meditation Space

Project in-detail

Responsive LED panels and solid bronze accents redefine the experience of a narrow alleyway in Tokyo, creating a meditative space that encourages introspection amid the urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Responsive LED panels adjust color temperature based on user movement.
02
Solid bronze frames enhance the structural integrity of the installation.
03
Integration into the historic Roji alleys preserves local urban context.
04
Cast ceramic tiles provide a tactile experience underfoot.
05
Design encourages introspection amidst Tokyo's dense urban environment.

The design focuses on creating meditation spaces within the urban setting of Tokyo. Surrounded by the city's complex network of alleys, known as Roji, it aims to offer calmness and moments for deep thought. The idea is to repurpose these narrow passageways, transforming them into inviting areas where people can engage with their thoughts while still being part of the busy city.

Spatial Interaction

The meditation space respects the linear nature of Roji. It uses LED panels as temporary dividers, altering how the alleyway is perceived. As people walk through the light-filled corridor, the design encourages them to connect with their environment. A sense of intimacy is fostered, inviting visitors to take a moment to pause and reflect on their thoughts.

Material Selection

The choice of materials plays an important role in this design. LED emitting glass panels provide the necessary lighting while enhancing the atmosphere of the meditation space. Solid bronze frames and brackets offer strength to the structure, ensuring that it can withstand the demands of an urban setting. Technopolymer frames allow for flexibility in design, while cast ceramic modular floor tiles create a tactile surface that resonates with users in this space.

User Experience

A key aspect of the design is how it engages users through responsive interaction. As they move within the meditation area, the LED panels change color based on their pace. This responsive feature encourages individuals to become aware of their speed and intentions. The combination of technology and a historical context promotes moments of mindfulness, allowing city dwellers a chance to reflect in the midst of everyday busyness.

Each detail contributes to the overall experience. The transition from the alleyway to the meditation space maintains the character of the Roji, yet offers a unique atmosphere for reflection. Users experience a soft interplay of light and color, creating an environment that invites deeper engagement with their thoughts.

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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

Enter an open architecture
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