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Transparent Glass Facade with Sustainable Wood Elements in a Cultural Community Space

Author:
JARED TIN YU LAI
Transparent Glass Facade with Sustainable Wood Elements in a Cultural Community Space

Project in-detail

A transparent glass facade envelops a cultural community space, enhanced by sustainable wood elements, creating a dynamic environment for artistic collaboration and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
An iconic Mango Vinyl Hub serves as the main access point, featuring a transparent glass facade that enhances visibility.
02
The design integrates charred wooden shingles for durability and aesthetic texture, reflecting local craftsmanship.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural support while promoting sustainability in construction.
04
A flexible layout accommodates various artistic functions, encouraging community collaboration and engagement.
05
The bent A-frame design not only adds aesthetic interest but also optimizes natural light for interior spaces.
The Cesīs Art Village project is a comprehensive architectural development located in Cesīs, Latvia. It aims to transform a historic urban site into a vibrant cultural hub that integrates various artistic and community functions. The design caters to a diverse demographic, including families, artists, musicians, and local residents, with the intent of promoting engagement and collaboration. By harmonizing historical elements with contemporary design, the project serves not only as a multifunctional space but also as a landmark reflecting the region's cultural identity.

Functional Structure and User Experience

The architectural design delineates specific zones tailored for different activities, creating a cohesive environment that facilitates interaction among users. The Family Zone includes amenities such as a cinema, a theatre, and educational galleries, providing spaces for family-oriented events and activities. The Musician Zone features an amphitheatre and performance stages, enhancing opportunities for musical expression and community performances. The Artist Zone offers extensive gallery space for exhibitions, encouraging public engagement with local artists, while the Designer Zone includes studios and retail spaces to support the design community.

A notable aspect of this project is the Mango Vinyl Hub, an iconic structure that serves as an entry point to the Art Village. Its transparent glass facade promotes visibility and accessibility, reinforcing the architectural focus on community interaction. The double-height entry space invites visitors and enhances the overall user experience, making it a pivotal part of the development.

Sustainable Materiality and Unique Design Approaches

The material selection plays a crucial role in the architectural design, emphasizing sustainability and aesthetic appeal. Key materials include glass for the building facades, concrete for structural integrity, wood for warmth in interior spaces, and steel for architectural support. This combination not only addresses functional requirements but also contributes to a cohesive design language throughout the project.

The adaptable interior spaces are designed to facilitate a range of functions, from coworking areas that encourage collaboration to specialized facilities that cater to artists and performers. The Vinyl Cafe and Store, centrally located within the development, integrates social and commercial components, providing a platform for local products while fostering a community atmosphere. The incorporation of a boutique hotel further enriches visitor experiences, with a design that respects and integrates with the surrounding urban landscape.

Explore the presentation of the Cesīs Art Village to gain deeper insights into its architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas. Understanding the detailed aspects of this project will provide a comprehensive overview of its potential impact on the cultural landscape of Cesīs.
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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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