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Subterranean Courtyard Shaped by Concrete and Glass for Cultural Engagement

Authors:
Alice Florean, Olaru Nasta, Virag Losonti
Subterranean Courtyard Shaped by Concrete and Glass for Cultural Engagement

Project in-detail

An underground courtyard seamlessly integrates natural light and concrete to create a dynamic cultural hub designed for community engagement and artistic expression.
5 key facts about this project
01
Underground courtyard enhances natural light and acoustic quality.
02
Ellipse shape promotes fluid movement and interaction among visitors.
03
Concrete façade integrates sustainability with modern design aesthetics.
04
Flexible interior layout accommodates various cultural events and gatherings.
05
Multiple access points encourage pedestrian connectivity and inclusivity.

## Overview

The Rome Concrete Poetry Hall, located in the vibrant urban fabric of Rome, is designed to serve as a multifunctional cultural hub that harmonizes artistic expression with practical spatial use. The structure reflects the city’s rich historical context while introducing contemporary elements that enhance user engagement and interaction within the space. The project aims to generate a dialogue between architecture and its occupants, creating an environment that is both reflective and dynamic.

## Spatial Organization and User Interaction

The design employs an elliptical configuration that encourages movement and fosters communal interaction. A central courtyard is pivotal to the building's layout, serving as a focal point that facilitates visitor flow and provides an open area for gathering and reflection. Dual access points have been incorporated to enhance inclusivity, accommodating diverse modes of movement such as pedestrian, cyclist, and public transport access. This thoughtful organization promotes accessibility and encourages community use of the space.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

The materiality of the Poetry Hall emphasizes a minimalist aesthetic while adhering to functional requirements. Concrete serves as the primary structural element, providing durability and a contemporary visual appeal. Glass elements have been integrated to maximize natural light and transparency, thereby enriching the interior atmosphere. Metal details contribute to the building's structural integrity, while wood may be used for furnishings to introduce warmth against the concrete backdrop. This selection of materials has also been guided by considerations of environmental efficiency, supporting sustainable design practices.

In addition, an underground courtyard offers a unique feature that incorporates nature into the architectural experience, creating a tranquil environment that mitigates urban noise. The design affirms a commitment to functionality with spaces adaptable for a range of events, including exhibitions and performances, affirming the hall’s role in promoting cultural narratives within its urban context.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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