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Transformed Cultural Hub Featuring Glass Facades and Sustainable Concrete Structures

Author:
Margherita Del Grosso
Transformed Cultural Hub Featuring Glass Facades and Sustainable Concrete Structures

Project in-detail

Characterized by its extensive use of glass and reinforced concrete, the revitalization of a historic cinema transforms the site into a versatile cultural center that fosters community interaction through diverse artistic events.
5 key facts about this project
01
Characterized by a blend of glass and reinforced concrete for enhanced natural light and visual connectivity.
02
The transformed structure maintains historical elements while incorporating modern functionality.
03
Multi-level design accommodates diverse community activities and flexible usage.
04
Sustainability is prioritized with energy-efficient systems and materials throughout the renovation.
05
Distinct architectural features include an open atrium that fosters interaction among users.

## Architectural Design Analysis: Ex-Cinema Nazionale Molassana in Genoa, Italy

### Overview
Situated in the Molassana district of Genoa, the Ex-Cinema Nazionale Molassana project reimagines an abandoned cinema as a vibrant cultural hub. The intent is to revitalize a historic structure through a thoughtful design that acknowledges its historical significance while introducing contemporary functions. This transformation aims to foster community engagement by providing a versatile space for social interactions and cultural events.

### Material and Spatial Composition
The material palette incorporates reinforced concrete for structural support, extensive glass for transparency and visual connectivity, and metal panels to create modern detailing that contrasts with the original sandstone facade. This interplay of materials not only respects the historical context but also enhances the building's aesthetic appeal and durability.

The spatial layout consists of multiple levels. The basement offers essential service areas, while the ground floor serves as a public entry point with an atrium designed to facilitate community interaction. The first floor accommodates auditoriums and multipurpose spaces, with the second floor dedicated to exhibitions that promote artistic exploration. Additionally, the third floor includes facilities for workshops and artist residencies, while the terrace on the coverage floor provides an outdoor space that enhances the user experience and integrates with the urban environment.

### Sustainability and Operational Efficiency
Adhering to sustainability principles, the renovation incorporates energy-efficient systems, aiming for Near Zero Energy Building (NZEB) standards. This approach minimizes energy consumption through innovative technologies and sustainable materials, emphasizing the project’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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