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Suspended Structures with Waffle Steel and Blue Resin in a Versatile Cultural Space

Authors:
Isaac Michan, Omar Acevedo, Alan Eskildsen, Roman Vicenteño
Suspended Structures with Waffle Steel and Blue Resin in a Versatile Cultural Space

Project in-detail

Suspended structures of waffle steel and blue resin create a dynamic environment within a repurposed warehouse, integrating production facilities and public spaces to enhance cultural engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Suspended elements connect various program areas, enhancing vertical interaction.
02
The design retains significant parts of the original warehouse structure.
03
Blue resin finishes create a contrasting aesthetic experience.
04
Hanging bridges promote dynamic circulation throughout the hub.
05
The rooftop café offers views and an elevated social space.

The Mango Vinyl Hub is located within an existing warehouse, focused on creating a lively cultural space that combines history with modern function. It serves various purposes by incorporating both production facilities and public areas, such as exhibition spaces, retail shops, coworking environments, and a café. With a central theme devoted to transformation, the design fosters interaction and engagement while honoring the original structure's heritage.

Program Organization

The layout of the Mango Vinyl Hub intelligently organizes space for maximum utility. Production areas and factory offices occupy the ground floor, establishing a direct connection with the activities that occur in the public spaces above. Newly constructed sections are designated for exhibitions and retail, enhancing the hub’s role within the community. The rooftop café and coworking spaces provide an elevated setting, promoting engagement with the surrounding urban environment.

Spatial Connectivity

A key feature of the design is the use of suspended structures that enhance vertical connectivity throughout the hub. These elements are supported by the existing beams and columns, adding sculptural interest while maintaining structural integrity. Visitors enter a space filled with intriguing suspended objects, which encourages exploration and fosters interaction. This approach to space enhances the vibrant nature of the hub and accommodates various user activities.

Materiality and Aesthetic

Materials used in the Mango Vinyl Hub are chosen to complement the original warehouse structure. The design includes a waffle steel framework for suspended portions, providing both support and a light visual footprint. The exterior is finished with black ceramic tiles, creating a simple but cohesive façade that aligns with the existing building. Inside, blue resin finishes create a contrasting environment, enriching the experience as people move through the space.

Architectural Details

Architectural details within the Mango Vinyl Hub are particularly noteworthy. The removal of the first-floor slab allows for an open layout, fostering flexibility. Integrated hanging bridges link different programmatic areas, promoting a dynamic exchange between various uses. The combination of light, materials, and design creates a welcoming atmosphere that supports both cultural production and community interaction. These elements help define the hub’s place in revitalizing the urban landscape.

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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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