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Translucent Polycarbonate Facade and Modular Wood Structure Enhancing Community Interaction

Author:
奕明 陈
Translucent Polycarbonate Facade and Modular Wood Structure Enhancing Community Interaction

Project in-detail

With a translucent polycarbonate facade and a modular wooden structure crafted from local birch and pine, this community market fosters social interaction while seamlessly integrating with its forested surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features a modular assembly approach that allows for easy reconfiguration and expansion.
02
Incorporates local birch and pine wood, reflecting the regional building tradition.
03
Utilizes a translucent polycarbonate facade for enhanced natural light while maintaining visibility.
04
Integrates shaded outdoor areas to promote year-round community engagement.
05
Designed with community input to ensure it meets the specific needs of local residents.
The Green Shade Market project emerges as a thoughtful architectural endeavor that embodies the principles of community engagement, sustainability, and aesthetic harmony with the natural environment. Located within a forested area in Latvia, this market functions as a multifunctional space that serves diverse community needs, including dining, social interaction, and educational activities. The project represents an integration of architecture and nature, where built forms are designed to enhance, rather than detract from, the surrounding landscape.

At its core, the design philosophy of the Green Shade Market emphasizes modularity and flexibility. By offering an adaptable layout, the market can cater to various events and user requirements, encouraging participation from community members. This adaptability is a defining characteristic of the project, as it allows for future revisions and expansions, supporting the evolving needs of the local population. The architectural design prioritizes lightness and transparency, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages visitors to engage with both the space and each other.

One of the important elements of the project is its thoughtful selection of materials. Incorporating polycarbonate panels provides transparency and contributes to energy efficiency by allowing natural light to penetrate the interior spaces. The use of wood, specifically pine and birch, resonates with traditional Latvian building practices, adding warmth and tactile qualities to the structure while ensuring durability. Additionally, elements like metal components and acrylic sheets used for roofing reflect the commitment to a lightweight and resilient design. Each material has been chosen not just for its aesthetic appeal but also for its functional capabilities, aligning with the project's overarching sustainability goals.

In terms of functionality, the Green Shade Market is divided into key zones that support various activities. Food areas are designed to host local vendors and dining spaces that foster communal gathering, while learning zones facilitate workshops and educational programs for community members. Various social interaction areas enhance the lively atmosphere, providing spaces for informal conversations, artistic performances, and cultural events. The design encourages fluid movement throughout the site, allowing users to transition seamlessly between these distinct spaces.

Unique design approaches can be observed in the project’s integration with its natural surroundings. The architects have conducted comprehensive site analyses that consider the ecological footprint of the building and its climate-responsive design features. These features include strategically placed shading elements that help manage sunlight exposure, contributing to occupant comfort and reducing reliance on mechanical climate control systems. The building's modular structure can also be easily assembled and adapted by community members, further promoting a sense of ownership and responsibility toward the space.

The project stands out due to its commitment to fostering community relationships through architecture. It serves not merely as a market but as a communal hub that encourages social connections, cultural exchanges, and environmental awareness. The careful planning and execution of the Green Shade Market reflect a deep understanding of the interrelation between built environments and human interactions, providing a model for future community-oriented architectural projects.

For those interested in exploring the nuances of the Green Shade Market further, a review of the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide deeper insights into the innovative ideas that underpin this project. Engaging with these elements enhances understanding of how architecture can positively influence community dynamics while respecting and enriching the natural environment.
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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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