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Translucent Glass Formations Embraced by Natural Stone in a Community-Centric Space

Authors:
Ali Baghizadeh, Aramdokht Jabbari
Translucent Glass Formations Embraced by Natural Stone in a Community-Centric Space

Project in-detail

Set amidst a stunning landscape, translucent glass formations rise from natural stone bases, creating an engaging community space that invites interaction and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent glass structures allow natural light to enhance interior spaces while providing views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Natural stone bases integrate seamlessly with the environment, emphasizing regional geological features.
03
The bent A-frame design offers structural efficiency while creating visually dynamic spatial experiences.
04
Innovative pathways made from transparent materials create a sense of floating, encouraging exploration.
05
Sustainable building practices are reflected in the use of locally sourced materials and energy-efficient technologies.
The project "The Growth of Crystals in Fire" is a well-conceived architectural endeavor that embodies the interplay between natural elements and human creativity. At its core, this architectural design symbolizes transformation, drawing a parallel between the processes of nature—particularly the formation of crystals through the intense heat of fire—and the resilience of human structures. This concept invites viewers to reflect on themes of growth arising from adversity, encapsulating a narrative that resonates on both an emotional and intellectual level.

Functionally, the project serves as a multifaceted space that encourages exploration and interaction. It offers visitors an immersive experience, integrating path-making within the design to facilitate movement and engagement. The circular layout centralizes the area around towering vertical elements, which are reminiscent of natural formations and serve to guide visitors as they navigate through the space. This arrangement not only encourages foot traffic but also fosters a sense of community and connection among individuals who traverse its pathways.

The architectural design incorporates an array of unique elements that enhance its thematic depth. The main feature includes tall, crystalline structures that serve as both aesthetic focal points and symbolic representations of growth. Made from a blend of materials such as glass, stone, and metal, these vertical elements evoke the geological formations found in nature. The transparency of the glass enables light to play across the surfaces, creating a dynamic interaction that changes throughout the day. This contrasts with the opacity of stone, which provides a grounded sense of permanence, ensuring that the project remains firmly anchored even amidst the ethereal qualities introduced by the glass.

The pathways leading to and among these structures are crafted with careful consideration to the user experience. These sloping walkways invite visitors to ascend gradually through the project, enhancing a sense of movement and discovery. The use of transparent materials for these paths further adds to the feeling of lightness and connectivity with the environment, blurring the lines between the natural landscape and the architectural constructs.

A distinctive aspect of this architectural design is its emphasis on interactivity. Rather than simply being passive spaces for observation, the design encourages visitors to become part of the narrative by engaging physically with the environment. Every element has been thoughtfully placed to elicit curiosity, prompting individuals to explore the relationship between the towering structures and the ground beneath them.

In addition to its interactivity, the project is notable for its reflection on environmental harmony. The architect has taken care to integrate natural themes into the overall design, creating an atmosphere that not only celebrates innovation but also cultivates a connection to its surrounding context. This sensitivity to the environment manifests in both the choice of materials and the overall form of the project, which resonates with the natural landscape and geological formations.

The incorporation of advanced lighting technologies also plays a significant role in shaping the project's atmosphere. By strategically placing lighting elements within the design, the project enhances the user experience, casting shadows and reflections that alter throughout the day. This dynamic element adds depth and complexity to the architectural experience, allowing for a continuous dialogue between light and structure.

Overall, "The Growth of Crystals in Fire" presents an engaging exploration of architectural design that goes beyond mere aesthetics. It embodies a thoughtful consideration of function, interactivity, and environmental integration, resulting in a multifaceted space that promotes reflection and engagement. To fully grasp the intricacies of this project, interested readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans and designs, as well as the rich architectural sections that offer deeper insights into the conceptual underpinnings and material choices that define this unique project.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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