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Spherical Community Hub Constructed With Glass Façade and Steel Framework

Authors:
gerson figueroa, sergio cordova
Spherical Community Hub Constructed With Glass Façade and Steel Framework

Project in-detail

Constructed with a distinctive spherical form and a transparent glass façade, this community hub in Tokyo seamlessly integrates cultural engagement with natural light, creating vibrant spaces for exhibitions and workshops.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a spherical structure that enhances community interaction and engagement.
02
Extensive use of a transparent glass façade allows for natural light to flood the interior, creating an open atmosphere.
03
The project features a flexible layout that can be easily adapted for various workshops and exhibitions.
04
Innovatively constructed with a lightweight steel framework, promoting both agility and strength in the design.
05
The interior includes warm wood accents that balance the modern materials, adding a tactile quality to the space.
The architectural project known as Tokyo Pop-Lab reflects a thoughtful integration of cultural identity and community engagement within the urban context of Tokyo, Japan. Designed as a multifunctional space, the building serves as a hub for local residents and visitors alike, facilitating a range of activities linked to contemporary Japanese pop culture. This project stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of architecture in urban settings, where the intent is not only to construct physical spaces but also to create environments that encourage creativity, interaction, and learning.

Tokyo Pop-Lab embodies the notion of a cultural intersection, harmonizing elements of traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern architectural practices. The design features a rounded, organic shape that symbolizes unity and connectivity within the bustling city environment, inviting exploration and engagement from all who enter. This form is not merely aesthetic but serves a functional purpose, promoting a fluid movement across different areas of the building, which is crucial for the diverse range of programs it accommodates.

At the heart of the project is its multifunctional core designed around community interaction. The ground floor features an expansive area that acts as a welcoming platform for various public events, tailored to foster a sense of belonging among users. This layout encourages spontaneous community gatherings, reflecting the dynamic nature of urban life. The design effectively breaks conventional spatial boundaries often found in more traditional structures, allowing for flexibility in how spaces are utilized.

As one moves upward, the building houses dedicated levels for exhibitions and workshops. These spaces are meticulously designed to adapt to multiple uses, emphasizing the importance of educational and cultural programming within the community. The exhibition space contributes to the visibility of Japanese pop culture, offering a platform for both local artists and international influences. Meanwhile, the workshop areas focus on creativity and skill-building, emphasizing hands-on learning experiences that resonate with the younger generation.

Another notable aspect of Tokyo Pop-Lab is its engaging materiality. The structure primarily employs glass panels within a sturdy steel framework, allowing for maximum natural light penetration and connection to the outside urban environment. This transparency not only enhances the aesthetic value of the building but also reinforces a sense of openness, aligning with the project's goal of communal inclusiveness. The careful selection of materials extends to the interior, where warm wood flooring introduces a tactile dimension, facilitating a balance between the colder elements of steel and glass.

The distinctive use of color throughout the project further enhances its identity. The bold red hue used for some structural elements creates visual interest and symbolically represents vitality, mirroring the energetic atmosphere typical of Tokyo. This attention to color, combined with the project's unique form, fosters a sense of place that resonates deeply with cultural traditions.

In addition to its architectural expression, the project thoughtfully integrates landscape elements, seamlessly blending built and natural environments. The strategic placement of greenery not only softens the building's hard edges but also provides spaces for relaxation and reflection, encouraging visitors to engage with their surroundings in a meaningful way.

Tokyo Pop-Lab exemplifies a thoughtful approach to urban architecture, focusing on the relationship between design, culture, and community. It redefines how public spaces can foster engagement while respecting cultural narratives. Interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further, where they can review architectural plans, sections, and various design elements that demonstrate the intricate work behind Tokyo Pop-Lab. Understanding these architectural ideas can illuminate the careful consideration that has gone into crafting a space that is as functional as it is culturally enriching.
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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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