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Textile-Inspired Structure Combining Aluminum Facade and Natural Light in a Community Space

Authors:
Loren Johnson, Catherine Varnas
Textile-Inspired Structure Combining Aluminum Facade and Natural Light in a Community Space

Project in-detail

Interlacing traditional Latvian textile patterns with a dynamic triangular form, the design utilizes aluminum and glass to create a bird-friendly community space that encourages connection and interaction with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The triangular form optimizes natural light exposure throughout the day.
02
Aluminum panels are patterned to replicate traditional Latvian weaving techniques.
03
Cantilevered balconies provide outdoor gathering spaces while enhancing structural aesthetics.
04
Design elements include nesting voids in the façade to support local bird species.
05
The project incorporates communal areas that encourage social interaction and engagement.
The Woven Tower is an architectural project that captures the essence of Latvian cultural heritage while integrating contemporary design principles. This structure is strategically situated in a landscape that connects with the local environment, particularly near a waterfront, allowing it to seamlessly blend into its surroundings. The design is inspired by the intricate patterns found in traditional Latvian textiles, fundamentally transforming how architecture interacts with cultural narratives.

At its core, the Woven Tower serves multiple functions, primarily aiming to create a community space that fosters engagement among its users. The architectural design incorporates various tiers and levels, allowing for a dynamic experience as individuals move through the building. Each level is carefully crafted to provide increased accessibility and comfort, promoting both social gatherings and introspective moments. This attention to function showcases a thoughtful approach to community-oriented architecture, where the design is not only about the physical structure but also about enhancing human interactions and connections.

One of the distinctive aspects of the Woven Tower is its triangular profile, which varies across the five levels of the building. This form is not merely an aesthetic choice; it supports the integrity of the overall structure while allowing for unique spatial opportunities and vistas. The innovative use of cantilevered balconies extends the usable space outward, creating a visual and physical link to the environment. This design feature encourages occupants to engage with the outdoors, fostering an appreciation for nature.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the overall architectural expression of the Woven Tower. The primary materials utilized in the project include concrete, aluminum panels, fabric facades, and glass. Each material is selected not only for its structural qualities but also for its contribution to the aesthetic narrative of the project. Concrete provides a solid foundation and core, ensuring longevity and resilience, while aluminum panels introduce a texture that reflects the diverse patterns found in Latvian weaving. The incorporation of fabric facades softens the tower's visual appeal, allowing for a more welcoming atmosphere.

The strategic placement of glass elements within the façade allows natural light to permeate the interior spaces, bringing warmth and vibrancy. These transparent sections create a sense of openness and connectivity between the inside and outside, enhancing the user experience and ensuring that the building feels alive throughout the day.

The design uniquely addresses ecological concerns by incorporating features that promote wildlife coexistence. Voids in the façade are intentionally designed to serve as nesting opportunities for local birds, highlighting the project’s commitment to sustainability and biodiversity. This thoughtful integration ensures that the architecture not only serves human needs but also accommodates the natural ecosystem surrounding it.

The circulation within the Woven Tower is organized to facilitate easy movement through the various levels. A central elevator core provides accessibility, while external staircases encourage interaction with the environment as users explore the building. This circulation strategy emphasizes a balance between functional accessibility and engaging architectural design, ensuring that all users can navigate the space with ease.

With its innovative architectural ideas and design, the Woven Tower stands as a testament to how modern buildings can embrace and reflect cultural identity. It serves not only as a functional space but also as a cultural landmark that invites exploration and appreciation of local traditions. The project encapsulates a delicate intersection of history and modernity, where every design choice reinforces the narrative of place and identity.

For those interested in exploring the specifics of this remarkable project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, additional details are available to provide a deeper understanding of the concepts and thought processes behind the Woven Tower. Engaging with these elements will offer valuable insights into how such architecture can positively influence the community and environment it inhabits.
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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
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