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Translucent Glass Facades and Energy-Efficient Steel Framework Reshaping Waterfront Workspaces

Author:
Tomáš Rausz
Translucent Glass Facades and Energy-Efficient Steel Framework Reshaping Waterfront Workspaces

Project in-detail

Translucent glass facades integrate with a resilient steel framework to create a sustainable workspace that merges functionality with the surrounding marine environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent glass facades enhance natural lighting while providing panoramic views of the waterfront.
02
The structure incorporates renewable energy systems, including solar panels and wind turbines, for energy self-sufficiency.
03
Modular housing clusters within the design allow for flexible spatial configurations and future expansion.
04
The resilient steel framework provides durability against environmental stressors prevalent in marine settings.
05
Sustainable materials, such as green coatings, are integrated to improve energy efficiency and environmental impact.

## Overview
Located in a marine environment, the architectural design of Data Island explores the integration of technology and nature, emphasizing sustainability in response to modern digital needs. The project is characterized by a streamlined, rectangular form that promotes efficiency and functionality, facilitating energy autonomy through the use of renewable resources. This architectural approach seeks to establish a straightforward connection between space and purpose while addressing the complexities of contemporary infrastructure.

## Structural and Material Considerations
Data Island features a prominent exposed structural steel frame, aligning with principles of minimalism and providing both aesthetic transparency and structural resilience in a waterfront setting. The extensive use of glass in the façade allows for the influx of natural light, contributing to an uplifting interior environment while delivering expansive views of the surrounding water. Concrete elements form the foundational and flooring components, ensuring structural solidity, while the inclusion of green coatings or panels enhances energy efficiency through solar gain management.

## Sustainability and User Experience
The design is centered on energy self-sufficiency, incorporating renewable energy systems such as wind turbines and solar panels directly into its architecture. Interior spaces are intentionally flexible, accommodating various activities and operational needs to support a dynamic work environment. The building's elevation above the water encourages ecological interactions, fostering biodiversity and potential opportunities for marine research. The interior layout promotes fluid movement across spaces, with natural colors and materials that reflect the marine context, creating a calming atmosphere conducive to collaboration and productivity.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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