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Translucent Glass Facades and Copper Roofing Foster Community Wellness in Urban Landscape

Authors:
Yoko Kawai, Takaya Kurimoto
Translucent Glass Facades and Copper Roofing Foster Community Wellness in Urban Landscape

Project in-detail

Translucent glass facades and sustainable copper roofing create a harmonious connection between nature and built space, serving as a community wellness center that encourages reflection and social interaction in the heart of Krakow.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent glass facades enhance natural light while offering views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Copper roofing provides durability and an aesthetic integration with the urban environment.
03
The use of 100% recycled wall board aligns with sustainable building practices.
04
A meandering pathway guides visitors through varying indoor and outdoor spaces, promoting reflection.
05
Zoning of different functions within the center facilitates both personal and community activities.
The "Narrow Path to Deep Woods" project is an architectural initiative located in Bror Hansson Park, Krakow, Poland. It aims to create a serene environment that facilitates relaxation and contemplation. The design embodies a symbiotic relationship with nature, promoting emotional and mental well-being. Users are encouraged to move through the space via a carefully designed pathway that guides them from the urban area into a tranquil interior. This transition is central to the project's intent, providing a respite from the bustling city life.

The project's primary function is to serve as a community space for personal reflection, therapy, and social interaction. Facilities include counseling rooms, communal areas, and recreational spaces that cater to diverse community needs. The architecture emphasizes a seamless integration of indoor and outdoor environments, enhancing occupants' connection to the natural surroundings.

Material selection plays a crucial role in the design, emphasizing sustainability and local resources. Key materials include copper for the roof, glass for the light well, 100% recycled wall board for surfaces, local European oak for flooring, reinforced concrete for the back wall, and stucco for exterior finished surfaces. This careful selection not only addresses environmental considerations but also ensures aesthetic coherence throughout the structure.

Unique Design Approaches

This project distinguishes itself from conventional designs by its biophilic approach, where natural elements and light are deeply integrated into the architectural fabric. Large glass walls permit abundant natural light, enhancing the indoor experience. The layout promotes a winding pathway that not only facilitates movement but also encourages contemplation and connection to nature. The "narrow path" design element effectively transitions users from the urban setting, fostering a sense of escape and serenity.

Spatial organization within the center is deliberate, featuring designated areas that cater to private and communal needs. The zoning strategy ensures acoustic separation of spaces while maintaining interaction possibilities. The design also innovatively mirrors the facades of existing surrounding architecture, thus providing continuity within the urban context.

The "Narrow Path to Deep Woods" project serves as a model for future architectural designs focused on community wellness and environmental integration. For a thorough exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas that outline this project, readers are encouraged to delve into the various elements presented in the project's documentation.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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