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Translucent Bubbles of Acrylic and Polycarbonate Redefining Engagement Within a Historic Skyline

Authors:
Jiachen Wei, Xinghang Wang, Haoran Chen
Translucent Bubbles of Acrylic and Polycarbonate Redefining Engagement Within a Historic Skyline

Project in-detail

Bubbles of translucent acrylic and polycarbonate emerge from the Empire State Building, transforming the historic structure into an interactive platform that fosters community engagement and digital connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent bubbles project digital media, creating a dynamic interface for visitor interaction.
02
The design seamlessly integrates with the historic Empire State Building, enhancing its iconic silhouette.
03
Vertical stages facilitate diverse activities, promoting multifunctional use of space.
04
Materials include acrylic and polycarbonate, chosen for their lightness and visual qualities.
05
Live streaming capabilities link on-site events with global audiences, encouraging broader participation.
The architectural design project "Empire Stage Bubbling" reinterprets the iconic Empire State Building in New York City, merging historical significance with modern communication technologies. This project serves as both a public space and an interactive platform that promotes community engagement and social interaction. It emphasizes the building's legacy while integrating contemporary elements that reflect the digital age.

Spatially, "Empire Stage Bubbling" differentiates itself through its innovative use of various 'stages.' These elevated areas, referred to as the Chaotic Stage, Experimental Stage, and Real-Agent Stage, fulfill distinct functions that encourage diverse activities and interactions. The design promotes vertical connectivity through a network of open staircases and elevators, allowing visitors to navigate seamlessly between the different stages. This organization not only enhances user experience but also reinforces the theme of progress intrinsic to the Empire State Building's identity.

The project employs a unique material palette that includes acrylic, polycarbonate, and glass-reinforced plastic (GRP). These materials facilitate the creation of semi-translucent bubbles that protrude from the existing structure, serving as projection surfaces for digital media. This design approach emphasizes the concept of connectivity, reflecting on how modern technology influences social interaction. By utilizing advanced materials, the project enhances the building’s aesthetics while expanding its functional capacities.

In addition to its spatial organization and materiality, "Empire Stage Bubbling" focuses on interactive technology. Features such as live streaming capabilities and immersive digital displays encourage community participation and engagement. The project includes a transmitter module designed to integrate with various media, symbolizing the relationship between physical architecture and virtual communication. By establishing this connection, the project positions the Empire State Building not just as a historical landmark, but as a contemporary cultural hub.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that further detail how "Empire Stage Bubbling" transforms the urban experience. This project is an invitation to examine how architectural ideas can effectively bridge the gap between historical context and modern technological interaction.
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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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