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Translucent Concrete Structure Shaping Cultural Exchange in Urban Landscape

Author:
Nino Machavariani
Translucent Concrete Structure Shaping Cultural Exchange in Urban Landscape
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Characterized by its translucent concrete envelope and engaging eight-shaped form, the facility fosters cultural exchange and community interaction within a vibrant urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent concrete allows natural light to create dynamic interior environments.
02
The eight-shaped design symbolizes infinity, enhancing cultural relevance.
03
Public transportation routes seamlessly integrate with the building's layout.
04
Multi-functional spaces allow for diverse artistic events and programs.
05
A focus on sustainability includes solar panel integration within glass facades.

## Overview

Located in Piazza Galeno, Rome, the Concrete Poetry Hall integrates modern architectural design with the city's rich cultural heritage. It functions as an exhibition space that reflects the relationship between location, identity, and timelessness, drawing inspiration from the phrase, “all roads lead to Rome.” The design emphasizes the concept of “Genius Loci,” aligning with the historic essence of the site while promoting contemporary usage.

## Spatial Organization

The layout consists of two primary levels: ground and underground, each tailored for specific functions. The ground level features an exhibition hall designed for diverse events, situated conveniently along public transportation routes. Public tram lines bisect the eight-shaped structure, creating distinct yet interconnected spaces. Terraced seating integrates with surrounding park-like areas, inviting visitors to engage with both the interior and exterior environments. The underground level includes a bookstore, a dance studio, and a performance stage, providing a versatile space for community activities and artistic pursuits.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The design employs an ornamental concrete net with translucent finishes, promoting transparency and lightness while contrasting with traditional architectural forms in Rome. Key materials include:
- **Concrete**: Selected for its strength and modern aesthetic, employing a new type of translucent concrete that presents a varied color palette, incorporating hues that evoke spirituality.
- **Glass**: Featured in south-facing facades to enhance natural light penetration and facilitate potential solar energy integration.
- **Metal Frame**: This structural element supports the concrete and glass, contributing to the overall design’s fluidity.

Sustainability is a critical focus, with the incorporation of solar panels and advanced concrete technologies aimed at efficiency and ecological responsibility. The design fosters a dialogue between indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the user experience while paying homage to the architectural traditions of the region.

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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

Open architecture competitions

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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge

AIA (American Institute of Architects) invites you to design affordable housing in Denver

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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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