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Undulating Glass Facade and Steel Framework Enhancing Exhibition Spaces in a Contemporary Museum Expansion

Authors:
Yulun Liu, Dongqi Chen
Undulating Glass Facade and Steel Framework Enhancing Exhibition Spaces in a Contemporary Museum Expansion

Project in-detail

With an undulating glass facade and a robust steel framework, the expansion enhances the existing museum's exhibition spaces, creating an immersive environment that connects visitors with the artifacts of history.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates an undulating roofline that facilitates natural daylight penetration throughout the interior.
02
Exposed steel framing emphasizes structural integrity while contributing to the modern aesthetic.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for sustainability, enhancing thermal performance.
04
Charred wooden shingles contribute to resilience and a unique visual texture.
05
Strategically placed terraces allow for outdoor engagement and exhibit visibility.

### Project Overview
The extension of the Archaeology Museum in Philadelphia serves as a contemporary gallery that aligns with the institution’s focus on anthropology and archaeology. This design seeks to bridge historical context with modern architectural principles, aiming to enhance the visitor experience while engaging with the dynamic narratives of the past.

### Spatial Dynamics and User Interaction
The extension introduces a series of angular forms that disrupt the traditional museum silhouette, creating a visually stimulating environment. The layout encourages exploration and interaction through evolving pathways and sculptural staircases that facilitate movement. This configuration not only supports circulation but also integrates various exhibit spaces, inviting visitors to engage deeply with the displays.

### Material Palette and Sustainability
The choice of materials reflects a commitment to both modern aesthetics and sustainability. Transparent glass elements establish a visual connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape, while exposed steel structures convey strength and contemporary design. Concrete provides durability and a sense of permanence, complemented by warm wood accents that enhance the tactile experience. Natural and artificial lighting is strategically employed to create an inviting ambiance and highlight key exhibits, amplifying the overall visitor experience.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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