Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Sunken Plaza of Reinforced Concrete and Local Tiles Creates Reflective Community Space

Authors:
guoyu liu, junya huang, yubing chen
Sunken Plaza of Reinforced Concrete and Local Tiles Creates Reflective Community Space

Project in-detail

A sunken plaza crafted from reinforced concrete and adorned with local tiles establishes a reflective space that fosters community engagement through a library and exhibition area dedicated to historical narratives.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sunken plaza integrates landscape and architecture to create a reflective public space.
02
Reinforced concrete provides a durable yet minimalist structural expression.
03
Local clay tiles are used to connect the project to Casablanca's cultural heritage.
04
Open exhibition area allows for adaptive use and dynamic community interaction.
05
Library resources focus on historical narratives to promote collective memory.
The architectural project "Twinning - Casablanca Bombing Room" is a contemporary exploration of memory and community in a post-disaster context. Located in Casablanca, Morocco, this design aims to serve as a public library and exhibition space that fosters dialogue about collective experiences and social reconciliation. The project addresses the historical narrative of urban trauma while facilitating community engagement through educational opportunities.

The structure is organized into three principal components: a sunken plaza that serves as the main entrance, an open exhibition space that connects visitors with narratives of urban spaces, and a library that provides resources for individual and communal reflection. The architectural design thoughtfully integrates these spaces to create an environment conducive to contemplation and interaction.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the defining characteristics of this project is its ability to merge physical space with intangible societal issues. The use of a sunken plaza as the entry point alters the perception of accessibility and encourages visitors to engage with the space before entering the main building. This transition invites introspection and establishes a narrative continuity between the outside and inside.

The exhibition space is designed with an open floor plan, allowing for flexibility in showcasing diverse narratives related to the city of Casablanca. This adaptability supports various programming needs and reflects the changing dynamics of public engagement. Visitors can navigate this area freely, creating spontaneous interactions that deepen their understanding of the exhibited themes.

Material selection plays a crucial role in the design’s uniqueness. The project utilizes reinforced concrete for its structural integrity, while wood elements bring warmth to the interior, fostering an inviting atmosphere. Local clay tiles are employed to connect the building with the rich architectural heritage of Morocco, reinforcing the project’s contextual relevance. Glass facades provide transparency, linking the indoor environment with the urban landscape, further blurring the lines between inside and outside.

Community Engagement and Educational Function

The library serves as a vital educational resource, encouraging critical thinking and reflection among visitors. It is designed to house collections that address social themes, making it an important tool for fostering discussions on resilience, memory, and identity within the community. By facilitating access to diverse materials, the library contributes to the ongoing work of reconciliation and understanding within the context of trauma.

Overall, "Twinning - Casablanca Bombing Room" represents an architectural endeavor that aligns physical form with social purpose. By approaching design as a means of dialogue and reflection, the project stands apart from conventional public buildings. This thoughtful integration of spaces, materials, and community-focused programming emphasizes the importance of architecture in shaping societal narratives and fostering engagement.

To gain deeper insights into this project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas, we encourage readers to explore the project presentation for comprehensive details on its execution and conceptual framework.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16,979 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy