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Translucent Roof and Mosaic Facade in a Community-Centric Cultural Laboratory

Authors:
Yulia Sisoeva, Kitchenko Dmitriy
Translucent Roof and Mosaic Facade in a Community-Centric Cultural Laboratory

Project in-detail

With a mosaic facade and a translucent roof that invites natural light, the design serves as a versatile cultural laboratory fostering community engagement and creativity in the heart of Tokyo.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mosaic tiles on the facade reflect traditional Japanese textile patterns while incorporating vibrant contemporary colors.
02
The translucent roof design allows natural light to filter throughout, enhancing the interior's atmosphere.
03
Curvaceous structural forms create a unique visual identity while promoting efficient spatial flow.
04
A flexible layout supports varied community activities, ensuring adaptability to changing needs.
05
Integration of steel and timber showcases a blend of modern durability with traditional warmth.
The Pokkuri House is an architectural project located in Okubo, Tokyo, designed to function as the International Popular Culture Laboratory. This facility focuses on fostering cultural exchanges and community interactions, merging traditional Japanese architectural concepts with contemporary design elements reflective of popular culture.

The design emphasizes an integration of contrasting aesthetics, where familiar architectural forms are reinterpreted through a modern lens. The building's structural framework combines traditional wooden constructions with modern materials, such as steel and reinforced concrete, ensuring durability while maintaining aesthetic warmth and cultural relevance.

Unique Design Approaches

The building's exterior features a series of curvaceous forms that suggest movement and fluidity, a deliberate choice reflecting the dynamic nature of popular culture. Vibrant colors and a mosaic of patterned tiles envelop the facade, paying homage to traditional Japanese textiles and art. This combination fosters a visual identity that clearly distinguishes the Pokkuri House from typical architectural projects, engaging a diverse audience.

Windows strategically positioned throughout the structure allow natural light to permeate the interior. The roof's unique design resembles classical Japanese forms yet incorporates translucent materials, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics. This interaction with light promotes a welcoming atmosphere, critical for the various activities housed within the building.

Functional Hierarchy

The Pokkuri House's layout is designed to facilitate a variety of functions across multiple floors. The first floor serves as an entry point, featuring an exhibition hall and café for visitors. The second floor houses open design studios and flexible recreation areas, encouraging active participation and interaction among users. The third floor comprises a library and IT suite, supporting educational initiatives, while the fourth floor contains a large forum, providing space for community gatherings and events.

The functional design reflects an understanding of how spaces can adapt to community needs, supporting both collaborative and individual activities. The versatile nature of the building encourages cultural initiatives, exhibitions, and workshops that can evolve over time.

For a more comprehensive understanding of this architectural project, including insights into architectural plans, sections, designs, and the overarching architectural ideas that contribute to its unique identity, explore additional project presentations. Engaging with these materials will provide deeper insights into the design methodology and conceptual framework of the Pokkuri House.
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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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