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Translucent Polycarbonate Canopy and Steel Framework Foster Community Engagement in Versatile Urban Spaces

Author:
Gleb Sheykin
Translucent Polycarbonate Canopy and Steel Framework Foster Community Engagement in Versatile Urban Spaces

Project in-detail

A polycarbonate roof structure ingeniously integrates bicycle components into a steel frame, creating a dynamic space that facilitates community workshops and social interactions in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates bicycle components into the structural framework, promoting eco-friendly transportation.
02
Translucent polycarbonate panels allow natural light to energize the interior while maintaining privacy.
03
The modular approach enables easy reconfiguration of spaces for diverse community activities.
04
Steel construction enhances durability while allowing for flexible architectural forms.
05
The open layout fosters interaction and collaboration among users, emphasizing community engagement.
The architectural project, known as Mirage, embodies a thoughtful approach to urban design that prioritizes sustainability and community engagement. It represents a modern architectural response to increasing urbanization, providing a multifaceted space that adapts to the evolving needs of its environment. The design reflects a careful analysis of local context and strives to integrate seamlessly into the surrounding urban fabric while promoting interactions among its users.

Functionally, Mirage serves as a versatile public space that can accommodate a variety of activities. Designed for use as community workshops, exhibitions, and social gatherings, the project emphasizes flexibility, allowing for dynamic reconfiguration based on the requirements of its occupants. The layout is carefully zoned to create distinct areas for different activities while maintaining an overall cohesive flow. This attention to functionality ensures that the space can be utilized optimally, catering to both individual needs and collective activities.

Key details of the project include its structural composition and innovative use of materials. The primary framework is constructed from steel, providing a durable spine that supports the building's dynamic forms. This choice not only enhances the structural integrity but also complements the clean lines and modern aesthetic envisioned by the design team. Translucent plastic panels, specifically polycarbonate, are incorporated into the roof and side walls, allowing natural light to flood the interior spaces. This visual connection to the outside reinforces the idea of bringing the natural environment indoors, enhancing the overall user experience.

Wood is employed within the project for flooring and various internal elements, adding a touch of warmth and enhancing the sensory dimensions of the space. The inclusion of glass ensures visibility and transparency, bridging the indoor and outdoor realms and encouraging a sense of openness. Additionally, bicycle components are cleverly integrated into the architecture to symbolize urban mobility and the importance of sustainable transportation methods. This thoughtful inclusion accentuates the project's commitment to fostering a culture of environmental awareness and active lifestyles.

Mirage further distinguishes itself through its unique design approach that emphasizes modularity and adaptability. The architecture embraces a modular design principle, allowing for easy assembly and potential reconfiguration in response to changing community needs. This flexibility is particularly significant in urban environments where demands can shift rapidly. The design processes employed to achieve this include extensive analysis of the structural rhythms, optimizing layouts for various activities, and exploring innovative forms that fulfill functional constraints while enhancing overall aesthetics.

As a whole, Mirage stands as an exemplar of contemporary architectural thought that integrates sustainability, flexibility, and community focus. This project not only provides a physical building but also fosters connections among individuals in an urban setting, addressing both social and environmental concerns. The innovative use of materials and structural elements underlines the project's commitment to creating a reliable and engaging space.

For those interested in exploring the intricacies of Mirage further, delving into the architectural plans, sections, and designs will unveil deeper insights into the creative processes and concepts that shaped this project. Reviewing these elements will provide a more comprehensive understanding of how the architecture is designed not just as a building, but as a vibrant part of the urban landscape.
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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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