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Suspended Cubic Volume Enhanced by Natural Light and Public Ramps in a Concrete and Glass Structure

Authors:
Icaro Coppio Da Costa, Paula Teixeira Da Silva, Mercedes Guzmán Romero
Suspended Cubic Volume Enhanced by Natural Light and Public Ramps in a Concrete and Glass Structure
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A suspended cubic volume, anchored by expansive public ramps and enveloped in a combination of concrete and glass, fosters an engaging cultural hub in Tokyo that facilitates exploration and interaction with pop culture.
5 key facts about this project
01
A fluid ramp system enhances accessibility and promotes social engagement among visitors.
02
Natural light permeates through the atrium, creating an inviting atmosphere throughout the space.
03
The cubic volume's elevation offers unique views of the surrounding urban landscape.
04
Flexible interior spaces accommodate various cultural programming and interactive activities.
05
The combination of concrete and glass emphasizes transparency and connection to the city.

### Overview

The Tokyo Pop Lab is designed as a cultural and educational hub in Tokyo, Japan, focusing on the exploration of pop culture. The structure aims to engage the public through interactive and integrative spaces, prioritizing openness and accessibility. The design intent is to create immersive environments that reflect the evolving nature of cultural dynamics in the urban context.

### Spatial Dynamics and User Interaction

Central to the design is the interplay of physical space and cultural engagement. The building features two major ramps that serve as transitional plazas, providing accessible pathways while encouraging informal gatherings and interactions. Above these ramps, a cubic volume is elevated, forming a distinct visual contrast that highlights the relationship between the solid and the void. This arrangement fosters a dynamic experience, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments.

The integration of an atrium facilitates natural light penetration and enhances the spatial organization of various areas, including exhibition halls, a café, a library, and conference rooms. These multifunctional spaces are designed for adaptability, promoting dialogue and collaboration around diverse expressions of pop culture while accommodating a variety of events and activities.

### Materiality and Construction

The material palette is reflective of contemporary architectural practices, likely incorporating reinforced concrete for structural integrity, glass panels for transparency and connection to the urban landscape, and steel frames for support of the elevated volume. Wood finishes may be utilized in interior spaces to enhance warmth and comfort, particularly in areas designated for learning and social interaction. Additionally, water features are likely included to enrich the sensory experience within communal spaces, contributing to the building's inviting atmosphere.

The Tokyo Pop Lab's design and material choices contribute to its unique character, emphasizing adaptability and inclusivity while providing a platform for cultural reflection in the context of Tokyo's vibrant urban identity.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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