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Spiraling Form of Translucent Canvas and Metal Inspires Community Engagement Along The Banks of The Daugava River

Authors:
Schael Maisonet, John Ocampo, Fernando Pinto de Aruda, Michael LeBoeuf
Spiraling Form of Translucent Canvas and Metal Inspires Community Engagement Along The Banks of The Daugava River

Project in-detail

The spiraling tower constructed from translucent canvas and metal harmonizes with its riverside location, inviting community interaction through a thoughtfully designed space for artistic gatherings and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower's spiral form symbolizes unity and aspiration, creating a dynamic visual presence.
02
Translucent canvas elements allow natural light to create shifting shadows throughout the day.
03
Materials include locally sourced metal and rock slate, reinforcing a connection to the region's heritage.
04
Integrated pathways vary in elevation, facilitating an interactive experience that mirrors musical rhythm.
05
Acoustic features enhance communal gatherings by responding to local artistic compositions.

### Project Overview
The "Power of Unity" is situated along the Daugava River in Riga, Latvia, functioning as both a commemorative and communal space. It reflects the region's cultural heritage while presenting a modern interpretation of unity through its architectural design and interactive environments. The project emphasizes the theme of togetherness and collective identity, inspired by significant historical events that have shaped the nation.

### Spatial Strategy
The design incorporates a spiraling tower that rises above the landscape, representing elevation and aspiration. This structure features intertwined looping forms, analogous to musical vibrations, and employs vibrant colors and varied materials to create a visually engaging focal point. Pathways throughout the site exhibit varying elevations that encourage user movement and interaction, with strategically positioned areas for reflection and rest. These dynamic routes mirror the natural rise and fall of musical notes, crafting a sensory experience that actively engages visitors.

### Materiality and Sustainability
An innovative selection of materials drives the project's functionality and aesthetic. Metal provides structural support and visual interest, while rock slate is used for flooring and retaining walls, creating a connection to the site’s historical architecture. Translucent canvas in the tower allows natural light to permeate, creating a play of shadows and enhancing the visitor experience. Sustainable design strategies are embedded within the framework, highlighting ecological awareness through the integration of green spaces and natural materials. The tower serves not only as a structural element but also as a cultural monument, symbolizing community resilience and the convergence of diverse narratives within Latvia.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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