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Suspended Metal Fins and Transparent Facades Define a Biophilic Urban Space

Authors:
Robert Crawshaw, Katelynn Tate
Suspended Metal Fins and Transparent Facades Define a Biophilic Urban Space

Project in-detail

Suspended fins of metal and expansive glass facades create an interconnected environment that emphasizes natural light and community interaction within a versatile gathering space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Suspended metal fins create dynamic shadow patterns on the building's surfaces.
02
Extensive glass facades enhance transparency and visual connectivity with the surroundings.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for innovative spatial organization and versatility.
04
Integrating biophilic elements, the project fosters a connection to nature within an urban setting.
05
Flexible interior layouts accommodate various community functions and gatherings.

### Overview and Context
The Chrysalis project is strategically located adjacent to significant regional landmarks such as museums and bridges, enhancing accessibility while emphasizing its architectural presence. Designed to reflect the socio-political history of the Baltic states—particularly the transformative movements of the 1980s—the structure serves both functional and symbolic roles. It utilizes elements of light, movement, and carefully selected materials to create a contemporary space that embodies cultural identity and resilience.

### Spatial Strategy and User Engagement
The architectural composition features concentric forms that guide visitor movement, fostering an immersive experience as one transitions from the exterior into the vibrant interiors of the café and gallery. The spatial arrangement balances communal areas and individual nooks, encouraging both interaction and personal reflection. Notable design elements include a dynamic roof profile adorned with suspended spheres, which provides unique lighting effects and enhances the engagement between occupants and their environment.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration
The project employs a diverse palette of materials to achieve both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. Glass is extensively utilized in the café enclosure, allowing an abundance of natural light while providing views of the surrounding landscape, effectively symbolizing transparency and connectivity. Vertical metal fins punctuate the façade, creating rhythmic patterns that reflect light and contribute visual interest from multiple angles. Durable concrete serves as the foundation, while landscape materials, including low bollards and concrete pavers, define approaches and integrate the building harmoniously within its environment. The careful selection and arrangement of these materials work collectively to create a cohesive and responsive design.

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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
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