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Sculpted Concrete Facade Enclosed by Textured Metal Screens in a Community Training Academy

Authors:
Mariana Moro, Eduardo Tong, Eduardo Tong Dante Pimentel, Sabrina Aron, Thais Bombonati, Eduardo Tong Dante Pimentel, Sabrina Aron, Thaís Bombonati, Eduardo Tong Dante Pimentel, Sabrina Aron, Thaís Bombonati
Sculpted Concrete Facade Enclosed by Textured Metal Screens in a Community Training Academy

Project in-detail

Sculpted concrete forms and textured metal screens define a contemporary space that embraces tattoo artistry and education at its core, serving as a vital community hub in North Melbourne.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of carved concrete provides both structural strength and a unique tactile quality that resonates with tattoo art.
02
Custom metal screens are designed with patterns that reflect traditional tattoo motifs, enhancing the building's visual narrative.
03
Flexible studio spaces adapt to various educational needs, fostering collaboration among artists and students.
04
A public plaza at the entrance encourages community interaction and serves as a venue for cultural events and exhibitions.
05
Natural light is strategically incorporated through expansive glass elements, promoting a vibrant and inviting atmosphere throughout the academy.
The architectural project designed for the Tattoo Academy in North Melbourne serves as a significant addition to the urban landscape, reflecting the city’s vibrant cultural identity while providing a dedicated space for tattoo artistry and education. This project embodies the rising acceptance of tattoos as a form of personal and artistic expression, challenging traditional perceptions and elevating the craft to a respected art form. The academy is not merely a venue for tattooing; it is a comprehensive hub for community engagement, learning, and collaboration, showcasing the multifaceted nature of contemporary artistic practices.

The building's design is marked by a thoughtful approach to massing, incorporating a series of angular forms that create an engaging visual dynamic. These forms work together to create a play of light and shadow, enhancing both the building’s aesthetic appeal and its environmental performance. The integration of a public plaza at the ground level fosters a welcoming atmosphere, inviting local residents and visitors to interact with the academy. This open area serves as a central gathering space, designed to accommodate events, workshops, and exhibitions that celebrate the art of tattooing and its culture.

Functionally, the Tattoo Academy is organized to support both practical education and community activities. The layout features dedicated studio spaces for aspiring artists, fully equipped classrooms for skill development, and versatile areas for demonstration and outreach programs. This organization underscores a commitment to education and professional development within the tattoo industry, emphasizing mentorship and practical application. The design encourages collaboration between students and experienced artists, facilitating an environment where skills can be honed and artistic expression flourished.

Materiality plays a crucial role in realizing the architectural vision for the Academy. The choice of carved concrete allows for robust structural integrity while also providing a tactile quality that resonates with the skin-like nature of tattoos. This material serves as a canvas, echoing the complex interplay between art and architecture. The use of glass enhances transparency, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces, which encourages public engagement and fosters a sense of inclusivity. Additionally, warm timber accents strategically placed throughout the design provide a contrast to the concrete, invoking a sense of warmth and vitality reflective of the life of the community it serves.

The incorporation of metal screens adds a layer of depth to the façade, allowing for customized patterns that evoke tattoo motifs and further connect the building to its function. These screens serve a dual purpose: they enhance the architectural expression of the building and provide practical shading to reduce heat gain while allowing natural light to permeate the interior. This careful consideration of both aesthetics and function illustrates a unique design approach that prioritizes both user experience and environmental responsibility.

Circulation within the Tattoo Academy is designed to be intuitive, guiding visitors through a seamless journey from the public plaza to the various workspaces and studios. The architectural layout encourages movement and exploration, with open pathways and inviting staircases that promote interaction. This design choice reflects the collaborative spirit of the academy, fostering an environment where ideas can flow freely, and creativity can thrive.

Overall, the Tattoo Academy project represents a thoughtful synthesis of architecture, community, and art. Its design speaks to the evolving nature of tattoo culture and its growing acceptance within the broader societal context. By providing a space dedicated to education and artistic exploration, the academy also reinforces Melbourne’s reputation as a city that embraces diversity and creativity. Readers interested in gaining deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and broader design ideas of this project are encouraged to explore the project presentation further.
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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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