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Under-Pressure Air Filtration Pod Constructed with Double-Plated Steel and Transparent Glass in Urban Setting

Author:
Stijn Haak
Under-Pressure Air Filtration Pod Constructed with Double-Plated Steel and Transparent Glass in Urban Setting

Project in-detail

Constructed with double-plated steel and transparent glass, the urban pod utilizes an under-pressure air filtration system while serving as a multifaceted venue for Berlin's vibrant nightlife and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructs an under-pressure air filtration system to improve urban air quality.
02
Integrates with Berlin's existing sewer infrastructure for enhanced functionality.
03
Utilizes double-plated steel to create a lightweight and durable structure.
04
Features transparent glass flooring that allows light penetration and visibility.
05
Designed as a community hub, fostering engagement through nightlife activities.
The "Techno Underground" project is a contemporary architectural intervention located in Berlin, Germany, designed to address the urban challenges of nightlife and environmental sustainability. This project integrates an entertainment hub with air purification functionalities, illustrating a functional approach to the nightlife culture endemic to this capital city. Its design signifies a response to both social and environmental needs by creating a communal space while improving air quality.

The primary function of the "Techno Underground" is to serve as a multifunctional venue that hosts musical events while also functioning as an air treatment station. This duality is evident in the design, which features a pod-like structure that emerges from the street level, encouraging community engagement. The architectural setup is characterized by its organic forms, designed to capture the attention of passersby and draw them into the space.

The construction utilizes several key materials to achieve its aesthetic and functional objectives. The use of double-plated steel provides structural integrity while maintaining a lightweight appearance. Glass is effectively employed in the flooring, allowing for light penetration and creating a sensation of transparency between the exterior and interior environments. Additionally, concrete serves as a robust base for the pod, facilitating its integration into the existing urban fabric.

One distinctive feature of the "Techno Underground" is its collaboration with the city's existing sewer infrastructure. This innovative approach not only revitalizes underutilized urban spaces but also establishes a direct link between the nightlife activity and essential urban utilities. Another unique aspect is the implementation of an under-pressure air movement system, which actively enhances air quality by drawing in fresh air and filtering pollutants from the surrounding environment.

Sustainability is a critical consideration in the project’s design approach. With a focus on lifecycle management, the pod employs prefabricated and transportable components for efficient assembly and maintenance. This allows for a modular design that can adapt to the dynamic urban landscape over time. Furthermore, reusable mechanisms are integrated into the construction, promoting a reduced environmental footprint and long-term viability.

The "Techno Underground" exemplifies a thoughtful merging of architecture and urban culture, providing a space dedicated to the unique vibrancy of Berlin's nightlife while addressing pressing environmental issues. Readers interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs of this project are encouraged to review the detailed elements to gain further insights into this multifaceted endeavor.
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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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