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Translucent Glass Façade with Glu-Lam Structure Supporting a Multifunctional Cultural Hub

Authors:
J. Michael Conard, Jihan Lew, Constance Sasso, Laura Boutwell
Translucent Glass Façade with Glu-Lam Structure Supporting a Multifunctional Cultural Hub

Project in-detail

A translucent glass façade envelops a Glu-Lam structure, creating a versatile cultural hub that fosters community engagement and artistic expression within an urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
A translucent glass façade enhances natural light while creating visual connections between interior spaces and the urban environment.
02
The structure utilizes Glu-Lam wood, emphasizing sustainability and local craftsmanship in its construction.
03
Acoustic design elements are integrated into the performance hall to optimize sound quality for diverse programming.
04
The bent A-frame design not only adds aesthetic interest but also contributes to structural efficiency.
05
Community input shaped the design, ensuring that the facility meets the specific needs and aspirations of local residents.

The project, "The Rising," is a carefully conceived architectural design situated in Riga, Latvia, aiming to serve as a cultural hub. This facility is intended to facilitate diverse programming related to the arts and community engagement, providing a space that promotes cultural exchange and artistic expression. The architecture is characterized by its elevated geometric form and innovative materiality, creating a functional yet inspiration-driven environment.

The primary function of "The Rising" is to serve as an auditorium, accommodating various performances and events. It is organized across three levels, with the main performance space centrally located. This configuration allows for optimal audience access and versatile use of space. The design carefully considers sightlines and acoustics to enhance the visitor experience. A significant aspect of the building is its translucent façade, which promotes an inviting atmosphere while allowing natural light to permeate the interior. The materials selected for construction include locally sourced Glu-Lam wood, high-performance glazing, concrete, and custom metalwork, aligning with sustainability goals and utilizing regional craftsmanship.

Unique Architectural Approach and Expression

What distinguishes "The Rising" from similar architectural projects is its integration of form and function with an emphasis on community involvement. The design explores the relationship between architecture and cultural identity, utilizing a sculptural approach that creates a visually engaging landmark in the urban fabric of Riga. The elevated structure embodies the concept of lifting cultural dialogue, promoting an atmosphere of openness and inclusion. The lightweight metal framework supporting the façade contributes to a sense of movement, symbolizing the dynamic nature of the arts and community.

The combination of translucent materials and natural wood finishes reflects careful consideration of local aesthetic preferences while incorporating innovative, sustainable design practices. This project avoids typical prefabricated solutions by relying on locally significant materials, reinforcing the connection to the region's architectural heritage. Furthermore, the adaptability of spaces within the auditorium allows for a variety of programming options, accommodating both large-scale performances and intimate gatherings, ensuring that the facility meets the diverse needs of its users.

Architectural Details and Spatial Configuration

The spatial arrangement of "The Rising" is designed to facilitate both community interaction and artistic performance. Interior pathways are thoughtfully configured to enhance circulation while encouraging spontaneous interactions among visitors. The auditorium itself features advanced acoustics, ensuring that sound quality is optimized for every type of event held within the space.

Detailed attention to the building's environmental performance includes passive heating and cooling strategies facilitated by the façade's design, which helps regulate thermal comfort. The combination of structural elements like Glu-Lam wood beams and high-performance glazing promotes energy efficiency by minimizing heat loss while providing comfortable ambient light.

Readers interested in deeper insights are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs associated with "The Rising." This review will further illustrate its unique approach to architecture and urban design, showcasing how it stands apart while fulfilling its intended purpose within the cultural landscape of Riga. Such exploration will provide valuable context regarding the architectural ideas that inform this project, revealing its potential impact on both the environment and the community it serves.

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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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