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Underground Connection Enhances Flexible Spaces in Urban Exhibition Halls

Authors:
Myat Htoo Aung, Yiyi Zhou
Underground Connection Enhances Flexible Spaces in Urban Exhibition Halls

Project in-detail

An underground connection facilitates seamless movement between a new urban building and existing exhibition halls, enhancing flexibility and accessibility for various events.
5 key facts about this project
01
Underground connection links new building to existing exhibition halls.
02
Flexible auditoriums accommodate a variety of event configurations.
03
Pitched architectural form frames key views of the historic skyline.
04
Pathways enhance accessibility to the old city of Riga.
05
Combination of modern functionality and historical context in design.

The design seeks to create an urban space that connects a new building with existing exhibition halls situated in the old city of Riga. The aim is to encourage both movement and interaction, fostering a functional environment. The concept highlights the integration of contemporary architecture with historical elements, using an underground connection to link the new and old structures effectively.

Spatial Organization

The interior layout is organized strategically to facilitate a variety of activities. On the ground level, an auditorium and a conference room provide a space for events and gatherings. Additional auditoriums and conference rooms are found on Level 1, which increases the capacity for larger audiences. This configuration supports the project's focus on usability and versatility.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Level 2 is designed with flexible auditoriums, allowing for different seating arrangements. This adaptability ensures that the space can meet diverse needs, accommodating various types of events. Level 3 incorporates conference rooms, offices, and a restaurant, creating a well-rounded environment for both professional and social interactions.

Contextual Engagement

Pathways connecting the building to the old city of Riga are thoughtfully designed to encourage ease of access. These routes invite visitors to explore the surrounding historical area. The architecture features a pitched form that frames vistas of the historic skyline. This visual connection enhances the relationship between the new building and its historical context.

Architectural Form

The east and south elevations feature design elements that maintain visual harmony with the environment. While specific materials have not been mentioned, it is likely that the selection will be based on durability and compatibility with the local character. This careful consideration helps ensure that the new structure fits well within its neighborhood.

The pitched design captures views toward the old city, establishing a dialogue between the new structure and the historical landscape. This interaction adds to the overall experience of the site.

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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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