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Translucent Facade of Polycarbonate Panels and Reinforced Concrete in a Community Cultural Space

Authors:
Stefania Rinaldi, Fernando Gimenez, Natalia Gentilcore, Alberto Possamai
Translucent Facade of Polycarbonate Panels and Reinforced Concrete in a Community Cultural Space

Project in-detail

A translucent facade of polycarbonate panels paired with robust reinforced concrete captures natural light while creating adaptable performance and exhibition spaces within a vibrant cultural laboratory in Tokyo.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent polycarbonate panels create a dynamic facade that shifts in appearance throughout the day.
02
The modular design allows for flexible interior configurations suited to various cultural events.
03
Reinforced concrete provides structural support while enhancing durability against seismic activity.
04
An open plaza surrounding the building fosters community interaction and engagement.
05
Strategically placed skylights maximize natural light while reducing energy consumption.

The Tokyo Light Boxes project is a multifaceted architectural endeavor situated in a vibrant urban landscape. Designed as a cultural laboratory, it offers spaces for performances, exhibitions, and communal gatherings. The architecture unites modern aesthetics with traditional influences, creating a distinctive structure that integrates seamlessly into Tokyo's fabric.

The primary concept of the Tokyo Light Boxes focuses on lightness and transparency, utilizing these themes to foster community interaction. The building's form consists of interlocking volumes that promote visual connectivity and accessibility, making it inviting for public engagement. The project exemplifies an innovative approach to architectural design, balancing functionality with an artistic vision.

Unique Design Approaches

The Tokyo Light Boxes incorporates a modular form that allows for a flexible interior layout. Configurable spaces enable the venue to adapt to various events, enhancing its usability. This design strategy reduces the need for permanent partitions, fostering a dynamic environment that can accommodate diverse cultural activities. The use of large glass windows and translucent polycarbonate panels emphasizes a connection between the interior and exterior spaces. This transparency allows natural light to flood the building, minimizing energy consumption and creating a welcoming atmosphere.

The materials chosen for this project play a crucial role in defining its character. Reinforced concrete provides structural integrity, while the combination of glass and polycarbonate results in a facade that shifts throughout the day, reflecting changes in light. The incorporation of wood elements within the interiors adds warmth and tactile contrast, enriching user experience.

Architectural Details and Functionality

The design integrates an open plaza surrounding the building, which serves as a communal area for gatherings and events. This space promotes social interaction and enhances the overall cultural engagement within the community. Strategically placed skylights further enhance daylighting within the building, complementing the large windows that connect users with the surrounding urban environment.

Furthermore, the emphasis on flexible design extends to the choice of materials, which are selected not only for their aesthetic qualities but also for their sustainable attributes. The project adopts a systematic approach to environmental considerations, aligning with best practices in contemporary architecture.

For those interested in exploring further, additional insights can be gained by reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and specific design elements that detail the project's execution. Engaging with the architectural designs will offer a deeper understanding of the innovative ideas that underpin the Tokyo Light Boxes project.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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