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Rubble Facade and Glass Integration Foster Community Engagement in Cultural Remembrance Space

Author:
DANIELE PIERALLI
Rubble Facade and Glass Integration Foster Community Engagement in Cultural Remembrance Space

Project in-detail

Constructed from local rubble and characterized by a fragmented facade of glass, the cultural institution serves as a poignant space for education and remembrance within the community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced rubble, the building connects deeply with its historical context.
02
The façade incorporates a unique blend of glass and rough stone to symbolize transparency and resilience.
03
Innovative use of a green roof enhances biodiversity and supports environmental sustainability.
04
Photovoltaic panels are integrated to minimize energy consumption and promote self-sufficiency.
05
Interior spaces are designed to encourage community interaction and educational engagement.
The architectural design project situated in Casablanca, Morocco, presents a contemporary structure that embodies the themes of memory and resilience. This complex serves as a cultural institution, focused on education and remembrance, and integrates elements of the city’s historical context and collective past. Reflecting the dual narratives of disintegration and reconstruction, the building’s design captures the essence of place while promoting community engagement through its function as a library and exhibition space.

The façade of the building employs a distinct combination of materials, prominently featuring rugged stone juxtaposed with smooth glass elements. This design choice communicates a narrative of fragmentation while symbolizing hope and renewal. The overall layout is strategically designed to enhance visitor flow and interaction, allowing for a seamless transition between various spaces and functions.

Innovative Use of Materials and Design Approaches

The project’s most notable aspect is its innovative use of materials that tell a story of their own. The integration of existing rubble as a fundamental component of the structure not only grounds the design in the local context but also serves as a physical reminder of past struggles. This use of stone in the construction process creates a tactile connection to history, while the glass elements contribute to transparency, fostering an atmosphere of openness and accessibility.

Additionally, the building utilizes a sustainable design approach, incorporating photovoltaic panels to enhance energy efficiency. The green roof element not only provides insulation but also promotes biodiversity in an urban environment, aligning with contemporary sustainability practices. These design features are instrumental in creating a functional space that addresses not only the architectural needs but also the environmental impact.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

The architectural design is organized to cater to various community needs and functions. The ground floor is dedicated to exhibition spaces, where curated collections facilitate educational programs and public engagement. This emphasis on interaction is crucial for the project's goal of remembrance and reconciliation.

The upper levels house the library, designed to promote collaborative learning. Its layout includes communal tables and quiet reading areas, carefully designed to invite visitors to linger and explore. The blending of various functions illustrates a comprehensive understanding of community dynamics and the role of architecture in enhancing social interaction.

This project stands out in its commitment to integrating historical narratives within a modern architectural framework, making it vital for those interested in exploring the intersection of cultural memory and contemporary design. To gain deeper insights into this distinctive architectural endeavor, the reader is encouraged to review the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs available for a more thorough understanding of its conceptual underpinnings and functional dynamics.
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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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