Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Spiral Core Structure Featuring Terracotta Facade and Communal Spaces in Urban Living

Authors:
Mengyue Niu, Austin Tsai
Spiral Core Structure Featuring Terracotta Facade and Communal Spaces in Urban Living

Project in-detail

A central spiral core connects flexible communal zones and private living quarters, enveloped in a terracotta facade that enhances urban connectivity and promotes a new model for high-rise residential living.
5 key facts about this project
01
A spiral circulation design facilitates fluid movement between communal and private spaces.
02
The central core serves as a multifunctional nexus for connectivity throughout the building.
03
Terracotta cladding enhances thermal performance while contributing to aesthetic appeal.
04
Innovative programmatic separation allows for distinct social interactions and individual privacy.
05
Sustainable materials are utilized to reduce environmental impact while promoting durability.
Centrum Petere is an architectural design project that addresses the need for innovative housing solutions within urban environments. This project emphasizes the importance of community and individuality, proposing a new typology for high-rise living that fosters interaction among residents while providing privacy in personal spaces. The architecture seeks to challenge conventional layouts found in typical residential towers by integrating unique design principles that promote connectivity and social engagement.

Spiraling Circulation and Central Core

One of the defining features of Centrum Petere is its spiraling circulation system, which creates a dynamic flow throughout the building. This design approach diverges from traditional straight-line circulation, offering residents an engaging experience as they navigate the various floors. The central core functions as a vertical hub that links communal areas with residential units, facilitating easy access and connectivity. This configuration encourages spontaneous interactions among residents in shared spaces, thereby enhancing the sense of community.

Material Selection and Aesthetic Considerations

The choice of materials in Centrum Petere plays a critical role in both functionality and visual impact. Reinforced concrete is utilized for structural elements, ensuring durability and stability. The inclusion of glass in the central core allows natural light to penetrate the interior, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and enhancing the overall ambiance. Metal cladding is incorporated in the façade, providing weather resistance and longevity. Additionally, terracotta or brick elements soften the building's aesthetic, contributing to a more inviting appearance. The strategic use of color, particularly red, signals important communal spaces and entry points, reinforcing the building's identity within the urban landscape.

Community-Centric Design Elements

Centrum Petere's design prioritizes community engagement through its programmatic separation of communal and residential functions. The ground-level communal floor is designed to host social interactions, featuring seating arrangements, dining areas, and shared kitchens to facilitate gatherings among neighbors. This layout promotes a culture of inclusivity and cooperation while maintaining individual privacy in higher residential floors. The architectural plans and sections illustrate how each component is thoughtfully arranged to support the residents' social needs while prioritizing comfort in their private living spaces.

The project utilizes innovative design ideas that not only respond to the daily functions of urban living but also create opportunities for enhanced social interactions within a high-rise setting. By examining the architectural details and thoughtfully considered layout, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further, diving into architectural plans, sections, and design concepts to gain a comprehensive understanding of this forward-thinking residential approach.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy