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Translucent ETFE Façade Redefines Public Spaces Under Urban Infrastructure

Authors:
Jason Li, Dennis Byun, Chris Choi, John Woo
Translucent ETFE Façade Redefines Public Spaces Under Urban Infrastructure

Project in-detail

A lightweight ETFE façade and sustainable materials transform an underutilized urban underpass into an engaged community workspace that fosters interaction and accessibility.
5 key facts about this project
01
A translucent ETFE façade allows natural light to permeate while providing energy efficiency.
02
Butyl rubber is used for sound dampening, enhancing acoustic comfort within the workspace.
03
The design integrates flexible layouts that adapt to varying community needs and activities.
04
A pedestrian corridor cleverly repurposes an urban underpass, increasing public accessibility.
05
Sustainable materials are prioritized, contributing to the project’s ecological performance.
The architectural design project situated in Auckland, New Zealand, represents a significant transformation of urban space, particularly focusing on the area near Victoria Park. By reimagining an existing underpass, this project integrates office spaces with communal areas, aimed at enhancing pedestrian accessibility and promoting community interaction. The design serves a dual function as both a professional environment and a public gathering space, emphasizing the importance of connectivity among users.

The project embodies a modern architectural solution that responds to the challenges of urban density. It utilizes spatial reconfiguration to bridge the gap between different elements of the urban fabric, creating a seamless experience for both workers and local residents. The use of natural light, coupled with the careful placement of green spaces, aims to improve the overall atmosphere of the area.

Integration of Innovative Materials and Design

This project distinguishes itself through the strategic use of innovative materials, notably ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene) for the façade. ETFE is lightweight, durable, and has thermal regulating properties, ensuring energy efficiency while maintaining structural integrity. Additionally, the incorporation of Butyl Rubber and Spray Foam Insulation minimizes noise, creating a conducive working environment. These selections reflect a consideration for both aesthetics and functionality, vital for contemporary architectural practice.

Open and Flexible Spatial Planning

The interior layout is meticulously organized, featuring distinct zones that cater to both public and private needs. The public interface promotes engagement through easily accessible entrances and a welcoming lobby area. Semi-public spaces, designed for informal interactions, enhance social connectivity among users. The private offices and meeting rooms are thoughtfully placed to allow for productivity while maintaining a connection to the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding communal areas.

Overall, this design project underscores the importance of adaptable architecture that meets the evolving demands of urban life. Explore further elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs to gain deeper insights into the structure and its impactful design ideas.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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