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Spiral Staircase and Natural Light Enhance Visitor Experience in a Laminated Wood Hub

Author:
Kohki Hiranuma
Spiral Staircase and Natural Light Enhance Visitor Experience in a Laminated Wood Hub

Project in-detail

A spiraling staircase crafted from laminated wood invites visitors to engage with natural light and landscaped surroundings, creating an informative hub tailored for travelers along the Trans-Siberian Railway.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spiral staircase integrates seamlessly with natural light for enhanced visitor interaction.
02
Laminated wood structure emphasizes sustainability while offering aesthetic warmth.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance and a unique textural quality.
04
Landscaped surroundings create a tranquil entrance, connecting visitors to nature.
05
Flexible interior spaces accommodate diverse events and community engagements.
The Trans-Siberian Tourist Information Center is an architectural project designed to serve as a central hub for travelers using the iconic railway. Situated adjacent to the historical Trans-Siberian Railway Station, this center aims to enhance the travel experience by providing essential information and fostering connections among visitors. The design reflects a commitment to functionality and user engagement while respecting the historical context of the surrounding area.

The project embraces a circular form that allows for seamless circulation within the building, facilitating an inviting atmosphere for visitors. The design is characterized by its use of natural materials, including laminated wood, glass, steel, lime concrete, and plywood, which contribute to both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. This careful selection of materials not only enhances durability but also promotes sustainability in architectural design.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the standout features of this project is the upward spiral staircase that leads to an observation deck, providing a vantage point for visitors to appreciate the surrounding landscape. The interior space is designed for flexibility, accommodating modular furniture that can be rearranged to meet the varying needs of users. This adaptability allows the center to host events, informational sessions, and informal gatherings, fostering a vibrant social environment.

The extensive use of glass throughout the design ensures transparency and visual connectivity between the interior and exterior spaces. This aspect of the design enables natural light to permeate the building while maintaining an open and airy atmosphere. Moreover, the landscaping surrounding the structure serves to integrate it with its environment, offering an approachable and serene entrance for incoming travelers.

Functional Elements of the Design

Functionally, the Tourist Information Center is intended to serve multiple purposes, including as a space for information dissemination, cultural exchange, and social interaction. Key areas within the center include informational kiosks, seating areas for visitors to relax, and zones for cultural displays that highlight the heritage of the regions serviced by the Trans-Siberian Railway.

The center’s architectural integrity is further enhanced by the thoughtful arrangement of spaces that promote visitor engagement. The central circulation area encourages movement through the building, while the design elements reinforce a coherent narrative that ties the structure to its context and function.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural merits and specific details of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs available. This will provide deeper insights into the innovative ideas and practical aspects that distinguish the Trans-Siberian Tourist Information Center from other projects in the realm of transportation architecture.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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