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Spiral Staircase Surrounded by Glass and Wooden Louvers for Urban Retreat

Authors:
梦婷 张, 佳钰 王, 洋 黎, 佳钰 王, 洋 黎, 佳钰 王, 洋 黎, 佳钰 王, 洋 黎, 佳钰 王, 洋 黎
Spiral Staircase Surrounded by Glass and Wooden Louvers for Urban Retreat

Project in-detail

A spiral staircase encased in glass and framed by wooden louvers creates a tranquil urban retreat that encourages introspection and community interaction amid Tokyo's dense environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spiral staircase design encourages upward movement for users.
02
Glass walls integrate natural light while maintaining a connection to surroundings.
03
Wooden louvers provide adjustable shading and enhance ventilation.
04
Meditation cells offer individual retreats within a compact urban setting.
05
The project addresses urban density by maximizing vertical space for community use.
The project "Breath in Tokyo: Photorespiration" embodies a modern architectural response to the challenges presented by urban living in the densely populated city of Tokyo, Japan. Addressing the limited spatial availability, this design focuses on creating a vertical refuge where inhabitants can experience a sense of escape from urban pressures. The architecture optimizes both form and function, striving to enhance well-being through spatial innovation.

The primary function of the project is to offer individuals a series of meditation cells that facilitate moments of introspection and calm. Each cell serves as a personal retreat, reinforcing the importance of mental health in an urban context where outdoor space is often limited. The design is characterized by a spiraling staircase that encourages upward movement, symbolizing growth and offering users a journey through the structure's various levels.

The project's material palette reflects its architectural intentions. Glass screen walls allow natural light to permeate the interior, fostering transparency and a connection to the surrounding environment. Wooden louvers provide shade and ventilation, enhancing user comfort while integrating a natural texture that promotes serenity. The steel frame acts as the structural foundation, ensuring durability and allowing for innovative spatial arrangements.

Unique to this project is its thematic connection to processes in nature, particularly the concept of photorespiration, which influences its holistic approach to urban architecture. The integration of natural elements into the structure contributes to a sense of biophilia, demonstrating how design can foster connections with nature within the city. Another distinctive aspect is the way the design transforms vertical space into functional areas, creating a network of retreat spaces that cater to various levels of public interaction and solitude.

The architectural layout further emphasizes user exploration, with each level offering different perspective changes and experiences. The meditation cells are strategically placed to promote both individual reflection and opportunities for social interaction, demonstrating a balance between solitude and community engagement. This layered approach maximizes the building's limited footprint while enriching the urban experience.

For those seeking to understand this project in greater depth, it is beneficial to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that illustrate the thoughtful integration of these elements. This examination will provide a comprehensive view of the innovative architectural ideas that have shaped "Breath in Tokyo: Photorespiration."
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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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