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Translucent Facade of Glass and Concrete Blurs Boundaries in Urban Living Space

Authors:
Shamsudin Kerimov, Ekaterina Kudinova, Asel Ravilova
Translucent Facade of Glass and Concrete Blurs Boundaries in Urban Living Space

Project in-detail

Emphasizing a translucent glass facade and organic vertical elements, this urban space seamlessly integrates natural surroundings while fostering community interaction and adaptability for diverse functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
The facade incorporates a grid of translucent glass that adapts to changing light conditions throughout the day.
02
Vertical elements mimic natural forms, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and potential energy collection.
03
The design prioritizes flexible spatial configurations, allowing for varied uses and community gatherings.
04
Reflective qualities of the water feature create a visual dialogue between the building and its landscape.
05
The use of charred wooden shingles provides both a distinctive texture and enhanced durability against weathering.
The architectural project "Keinewand" embodies a thoughtful exploration of contemporary design principles that prioritize interaction between built environments and their natural settings. This project illustrates a significant shift from traditional architectural boundaries, promoting a more fluid conception of space through innovative design approaches. A key characteristic of "Keinewand" is its emphasis on transparency, which opens up possibilities for more interconnected living and working areas, enhancing user engagement with both outdoor and indoor environments.

At the heart of this design is the overarching philosophy of minimizing the presence of walls, facilitating an open atmosphere that encourages flexibility in how spaces are utilized. The visual characteristics of the building are largely defined by its facade, which employs a grid-like arrangement of glass. This choice promotes an interplay of light and shadow, establishing a dynamic interaction with the changing nature outside. As light ebbs and flows throughout the day, the structure responds, creating an ever-evolving aesthetic that invites curiosity and reflection.

The building's structural integrity is achieved through the use of metal, which not only provides durability but also contributes to the modern design language. Vertical elements, reminiscent of natural forms, extend gracefully from the structure, enhancing its height and lending an organic feel to the overall composition. These elements serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, potentially acting as supports while also integrating aspects of renewable energy technology.

Concrete plays a critical role in the foundational aspects of the project, providing rigour and stability essential for the successful execution of such an open design. The thoughtful consideration of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and durability, which are integral to contemporary architectural methodologies. The materiality of "Keinewand" does not merely serve aesthetic purposes; it reflects an understanding of how effective design can harmonize human activity with the natural environment.

Complementing the architectural features is a carefully curated landscape that enhances the site's ecological footprint. The surrounding greenery contributes to a sense of calm and connection to nature, establishing a juxtaposition with the structural elements. The deliberate positioning of plants and trees not only enriches the visual narrative of the project but also supports local biodiversity and enhances user well-being through biophilic principles.

"Keinewand" is aimed at fostering enhanced interactions among occupants, serving a multifunctional role that accommodates various activities throughout daily life. By enabling flexible spatial configurations, the design champions a community-centric approach that promotes collaboration and social engagement. The absence of conventional walls facilitates movement and communication, underscoring the potential for the structure to morph with the changing needs of its users.

A distinctive aspect of this project is its engagement with the surrounding water feature. The reflective quality of the glass facade creates a dialogue with the water, blurring boundaries and fostering a unique experience where the structure appears to emanate from the landscape itself. Such engagement emphasizes the idea of coexistence between nature and architecture, encouraging a deeper appreciation of the site.

In its entirety, "Keinewand" represents a forward-thinking architectural vision that prioritizes sustainability, community interaction, and a deep respect for the natural environment. Its innovative design approaches position it as an exemplary model in the evolving discourse of architecture today. Readers interested in further exploration are encouraged to delve into the project's architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain a richer understanding of the ideas and methodologies that underpin this work.
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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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