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Sustainable Steel and Concrete Structure Integrates Perforated Mesh Facade in Community Learning Center

Authors:
Eduardo Estrada, Dayann Calderon, Maria Fernanda Pacheco
Sustainable Steel and Concrete Structure Integrates Perforated Mesh Facade in Community Learning Center

Project in-detail

Combining repurposed steel and a perforated mesh facade, the Knowledge Center serves as a community resource that fosters education and engagement in a location marked by historical significance.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a facade of perforated mesh to create dynamic light patterns within the interior.
02
Incorporates recycled steel from shipping containers as a sustainable building material.
03
Features a sunken plaza to enhance community engagement and outdoor activities.
04
Design elements draw inspiration from local geological formations, reinforcing connection to the site.
05
Integrates green landscaping to promote biodiversity and provide environmental benefits.

# MA-ROCK-O Knowledge Center

## Overview

The MA-ROCK-O Knowledge Center is situated in a region marked by a history of conflict. This dual-function facility serves as both a library and an exhibition space, aimed at promoting education and awareness while also acting as a memorial to the area’s past. The design incorporates the concepts of resilience and knowledge, reflecting a commitment to fostering understanding within the community it serves.

## Spatial Strategy

The design features a dual circulation system that caters to both local residents and visitors. Distinct pathways guide tourists through diverse educational experiences while facilitating easy access for community members to essential resources. The ground level includes a sunken plaza, functioning as a welcoming entry point and gathering space. Inside, the library spans multiple levels with strategically placed openings to optimize natural light, enhancing the learning environment and encouraging fluid movement between the library and exhibition areas.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The building employs a range of sustainable materials that promote environmental responsibility. Recycled steel from shipping containers contributes to the structure's identity while minimizing the carbon footprint. Locally sourced concrete ensures durability and connects the facility to its geographical context. A distinctive wooden mesh facade provides aesthetic appeal, creating intricate patterns of light and shadow within the interior spaces. This thoughtful approach to material selection supports both ecological sustainability and the architectural harmony of the Knowledge Center with its surroundings.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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