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Spiral Structure Enhanced by Glass Facades and Natural Wood Elements in Urban Living

Authors:
Mengyue Niu, Austin Tsai
Spiral Structure Enhanced by Glass Facades and Natural Wood Elements in Urban Living

Project in-detail

With its spiral circulation path and expansive glass facades that blend natural light and urban living, this high-rise redefines community interaction while seamlessly integrating private and shared spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building features a unique spiral circulation pathway that enhances resident interaction.
02
Expansive glass facades are designed to maximize natural light while providing scenic views.
03
Communal gardens and terraces are integrated into the structure, promoting biodiversity in an urban setting.
04
The use of cross-laminated timber panels in construction reduces the building's carbon footprint.
05
Social spaces are strategically located at multiple levels to foster community engagement among residents.
The architectural project known as “Centrum Petere” serves as a thoughtful reflection of contemporary urban living, addressing the challenges posed by densely populated environments. This design focuses on creating a cohesive community within a multi-unit residential high-rise, a functionality that is increasingly necessary in urban settings where the need for space and interaction often clashes. The project represents a pivotal exploration of how architecture can enhance life in a crowded cityscape by fostering both privacy and community.

At its core, “Centrum Petere” aims to reshape the notion of communal living. The design addresses the need for interconnected living spaces, while emphasizing the importance of social interaction among residents. This approach is encapsulated in the name of the project, which translates to “to seek a new center.” The designers effectively present a new focal point in a bustling environment, merging the concepts of private units and shared spaces.

The overall architectural composition is a well-considered balance of function and form. With its distinctive spiral layout, the design breaks away from traditional floor plans typically found in high-rise buildings. Instead of isolating individual living units, the spiral organization allows residents to traverse the building vertically and horizontally in a way that promotes serendipitous meetings and connectivity. The central core not only functions as a circulation route but also as a social hub, inviting interaction among residents.

Material selection is integral to the project’s character, with concrete forming a robust structural backbone complemented by glass facades that promote visual transparency. The use of steel contributes to the building’s structural integrity while allowing for expansive open spaces inside. Wood accents strategically placed throughout the interior help to soften the industrial feel, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that resonates with residents. These materials are utilized thoughtfully to enhance both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the architecture, allowing the building to respond to its urban context.

A significant aspect of the design is its focus on vertical circulation. Instead of relying solely on conventional stairways and elevators, the project incorporates a continuous spiral pathway that not only facilitates movement but also encourages engagement. This movement is deliberately designed to be experiential, inviting residents to discover the various communal spaces available to them throughout the building. Such an approach emphasizes the importance of human interaction in residential architecture.

Moreover, the environmental considerations are paramount, reflecting a growing awareness of sustainability in architectural design. The integration of green spaces within the project contributes to enhancing the urban ecosystem. Communal gardens and terraces provide residents with access to nature, supporting biodiversity and improving the quality of life in an urban environment. This connection with the outdoors is essential in urban living, where green spaces can often be limited.

The crafting of spaces is driven by both communal and private needs, evident in the design of the communal floor. This space acts as a dynamic environment for social gatherings, equipped with areas designated for dining and recreation. Similarly, residential floors maintain a thoughtful balance between shared and private areas, ensuring that individual privacy is respected while still promoting interaction among residents. The thoughtfully designed lobby serves as the gateway between public and private realms, creating an inviting atmosphere that welcomes both residents and visitors alike.

The project presents an opportunity to explore a modern approach to urban living that prioritizes community and connectivity through architectural innovation. By breaking down traditional barriers between private and shared spaces, “Centrum Petere” stands as a model for how architecture can adapt to the needs of urban inhabitants. As the boundaries of residential comfort are redefined, the project invites further exploration into its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas for a complete understanding of its thoughtful conception. Interested readers should delve deeper into the project presentation to discover all the intricate details and design elements that make this architectural endeavor stand out.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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