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Rusted Metal Facades and Translucent Spaces in a Multifunctional Learning Hub

Authors:
Weronika Zaborek, Olga Jaglarz, Mateusz Żelazny
Rusted Metal Facades and Translucent Spaces in a Multifunctional Learning Hub

Project in-detail

Rusted metal facades combined with translucent spaces create a dynamic interface between historical context and modern function in a comprehensive learning hub dedicated to digital literacy and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rusted perforated metal sheets echo the site's industrial legacy while promoting air flow and light.
02
Translucent glass façades create seamless connections between interior and exterior environments.
03
Underground passages facilitate movement between diverse functions, enhancing user engagement.
04
The multifunctional design integrates a Museum of Internet, Learning Centre, and Research Facility.
05
Natural landscapes are woven into the architectural layout, fostering a connection with the riverfront.

### Project Overview

The IT Dock is situated in North Woolwich, London, a location with a significant industrial legacy. The design integrates historical references with contemporary digital interactions, reflecting the evolving nature of technology in an urban context. The project aims to create a multifaceted space that honors its past while addressing present needs and future aspirations within the digital landscape.

### Spatial Configuration and Internal Organization

The spatial organization emphasizes a clear hierarchy, positioning public amenities such as cafes and exhibition spaces on the ground floor to foster community interaction. Upper levels are designated for private functions, including conference rooms and creative studios, facilitating a balanced engagement between public and private uses. Flexible interior layouts encourage innovation and collaboration, with open studios designed to accommodate diverse activities.

### Materiality and Design Language

The architectural expression is defined by a distinct material palette. Rusted perforated metal sheets evoke the site’s industrial history, reminiscent of old ships, while glass facades enhance transparency and light penetration, bridging indoor and outdoor environments. Concrete provides structural support and contrast to the lighter elements, reinforcing the design’s stability. These materials collectively contribute to a cohesive identity that resonates with the historical context and the building's purpose as a center for knowledge and engagement.

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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
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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