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Transparent Facades and Green Roofs Enhance Community Engagement at Waterfront Hub

Author:
Doris Carolina Perkins
Transparent Facades and Green Roofs Enhance Community Engagement at Waterfront Hub

Project in-detail

Incorporating transparent facades and green roofs, the design seamlessly integrates with its waterfront setting to create a multifunctional community hub that fosters cultural engagement and environmental awareness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a historical concrete wall from the site’s industrial past as a central design element.
02
Features extensive green roofs to enhance biodiversity and manage stormwater effectively.
03
Utilizes natural ventilation through strategically placed windows and vents for energy efficiency.
04
Emphasizes community interaction with open pedestrian pathways connecting diverse functional areas.
05
Integrates flexible outdoor spaces that can accommodate various community events and activities.
This architectural design project is located along a prominent waterfront, designed to integrate the built environment with its natural surroundings while promoting community engagement and sustainability. The structure encompasses various multifunctional spaces aimed at cultural exchange, education, and recreation, reflecting a commitment to environmental awareness and architectural coherence with the landscape.

The project consists of a series of interconnected volumes that respond to site topography and climatic conditions. Extensive use of glass serves to enhance transparency and visual connectivity with the outdoors, encouraging an interaction between occupants and the natural environment. The design prioritizes natural light and ventilation, implementing strategies that reduce energy consumption and promote a healthier indoor atmosphere.

Functional Spaces and Design Elements

The layout incorporates key functional areas including exhibition spaces, educational facilities, and communal areas, supporting diverse community activities. These functions are organized around open pedestrian pathways that facilitate movement and accessibility throughout the site. The design deploys a combination of public parks and flexible outdoor spaces, fostering social interaction and enhancing community access to cultural and recreational amenities.

Unique Design Approaches

Innovative aspects of the project include the adaptive reuse of a historical concrete wall from the site’s industrial past, which serves as a structural and aesthetic feature of the new design. This approach not only preserves historical context but also reinforces sustainable practices by minimizing the environmental impact associated with new construction. The architectural design integrates green roofs, which contribute to biodiversity and manage rainfall, further supporting the project’s environmental objectives.

The exterior design is characterized by dynamic forms that flow with the shoreline, creating fluid transitions that blend architecture with landscape. This approach guarantees that each interior space offers views of the waterfront, enhancing user experience and promoting environmental awareness.

This architectural design project exemplifies an integrated approach to urban development, balancing historical appreciation with modern sustainability practices. To explore this project further, including architectural plans, sections, and in-depth architectural designs, please review the provided materials for a comprehensive understanding of the architectural ideas that shape this innovative space.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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