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Transparent Glass Facade and Recycled Materials in a Community-Centric Waste Processing Facility

Author:
Christina Valentinova Tantcheva
Transparent Glass Facade and Recycled Materials in a Community-Centric Waste Processing Facility

Project in-detail

Featuring a transparent glass facade that reveals the processing of recycled tomato waste, the facility emphasizes community engagement and sustainability while serving as a vital educational hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Transparent glass walls provide visibility into recycling processes.
02
Construction incorporates recycled materials to emphasize sustainability.
03
The facility features a bent A-frame design for structural efficiency.
04
Educational workshops are integrated to promote community involvement.
05
Outdoor gardens enhance interaction and showcase sustainable practices.
The Tomato Waste Rescue Centre is an architectural project located in Waterland, dedicated to addressing food waste, specifically the organic by-products generated during tomato production. This facility serves multiple functions: recycling processing, educational outreach, and community interaction. By integrating these aspects, the project fosters a greater understanding of sustainable practices within the agriculture industry while actively working to reduce environmental impact.

The design of the centre combines form and function to create a space that is both efficient and engaging. Architectural elements include a blend of transparency and openness, allowing natural light to permeate while providing visibility into the waste processing operations. The layout is organized into distinct zones designed for processing, education, and community engagement, enhancing functionality and promoting public involvement.

Sustainability is a key principle throughout the project. The choice of materials reflects this commitment, incorporating glass, steel, and recycled components to minimize environmental impact. The extensive use of glass facilitates an inviting atmosphere while showcasing the recycling processes, connecting the public to food management practices. Structural elements utilize steel for durability and efficiency, essential for high operational demands. Additionally, recycled materials highlight the centre's central theme of waste repurposing, aligning with the project’s educational goals.

A distinctive aspect of this project is its emphasis on community engagement. The design incorporates outdoor areas, such as gardens and terraces, that invite community members to participate in sustainability initiatives. This connection between the centre and the local population is further enhanced by the transparent architecture, allowing individuals to witness the recycling process firsthand, thus demystifying waste management.

The overall structure promotes energy efficiency through the use of natural light, effective ventilation, and a strategic layout that encourages passive heating and cooling. Water recycling systems are integrated to optimize resource use within the facility.

The Tomato Waste Rescue Centre stands out in its approach to merging architecture and community sustainability. Its innovative design caters to educational needs while addressing environmental challenges associated with food waste. For further insights into the project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs, it is recommended that readers explore the project presentation. This provides an in-depth look at the architectural ideas and solutions that define the Tomato Waste Rescue Centre.
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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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