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Transparent Glass Facade with Energy-Efficient Steel Structure in Communal Workspace

Authors:
Dafni Mesochoriti, Maria Papadopoulou, Efthymia Rapti, Efthymia Rapti, Fethymia Rarti
Transparent Glass Facade with Energy-Efficient Steel Structure in Communal Workspace

Project in-detail

A central courtyard surrounded by a transparent glass facade and private workspaces encased in steel frames creates a dynamic environment for collaboration and productivity in Berlin's modern office architecture.
5 key facts about this project
01
A central courtyard fosters community engagement and collaboration among employees.
02
The building integrates energy-efficient systems with low-emission glass to enhance sustainability.
03
Flexible workspaces feature movable furniture to accommodate diverse work styles.
04
Vertical circulation encourages interaction through interconnected staircases and bridges.
05
Steel frameworks support expansive open spaces while maintaining structural integrity.

### Overview

Located in Berlin, the Axel Springer Neubau is a contemporary office structure designed to accommodate the evolving functions of workspaces while promoting social interaction among occupants. The building’s design reflects a modern interpretation of traditional urban block structures, incorporating a vibrant central courtyard that enhances community engagement and serves as a versatile public space for activities such as socialization and cultural events. The spatial organization prioritizes public areas on lower levels and allocates upper floors for private office environments, creating a strategic contrast between accessibility and privacy.

### Spatial Organization

The architectural layout comprises distinct zones tailored to different work styles. The open co-working area features shared workstations arranged on raised platforms to foster interaction and collaboration. In contrast, private office spaces are designed as glass-enclosed capsules, providing necessary privacy while maintaining a visual connection to the larger workspace. This arrangement cultivates a dynamic environment where both collaborative and focused work can thrive, promoting productivity through flexible spatial configurations.

### Sustainability and Materiality

Sustainability is a key focus in the design, employing energy-efficient materials and systems to reduce the building's environmental impact. Low-emission glass panels and high-performance insulation contribute to energy efficiency, while the inclusion of greenery both within and adjacent to the structure reinforces the integration of natural elements in an urban context. The material palette incorporates steel, wood, and aluminum, creating a balance of durability and aesthetics, while movable furniture and adjustable curtains enhance the functionality of the workspace. These design choices reflect a commitment to creating comfortable and adaptable environments for users.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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