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Vertical Layers of Transparency in a Mixed-Use Community Hub

Authors:
Maki Tsujita, Atsushi Onoe
Vertical Layers of Transparency in a Mixed-Use Community Hub

Project in-detail

With a transparent facade and vertical layering that encourages public interaction, the skyscraper in Osaka serves as a mixed-use community hub integrating cultural spaces, retail, and residential areas.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent facade allows for natural light while maintaining privacy.
02
Vertical layering creates distinct community and cultural zones within the structure.
03
Public programs are strategically placed between private spaces to enhance interaction.
04
Design features multiple access points for pedestrians and vehicles, improving circulation.
05
Integration of outdoor terraces promotes engagement with the surrounding environment.

The skyscraper project in Osaka, Japan, presents an important response to urban density and functionality. Designed to host a variety of public and private functions, the structure acts as a focal point for community interactions. By integrating different programs within a single vertical form, it allows for fluid interactions among inhabitants. Furthermore, the design emphasizes transparency and connectivity to the surrounding cityscape, addressing the needs of modern urban life.

Design Concept

A central theme of the design is the strategic arrangement of public programs alongside private spaces. This intentional layout promotes accessibility, encouraging various user groups to engage with each other. The building's transparent facade plays a significant role, providing wide views of the environment. Natural light floods the interior, enhancing the atmosphere and allowing users to remain connected to the vibrant city life outside.

Zoning and Circulation

The zoning within the skyscraper is thoughtfully organized, distinguishing between horizontal and vertical arrangements. Horizontal zoning facilitates a clear distribution of volume, while vertical layers align with the natural flow of the nearby river and roadways. This planning assists in effective circulation, enabling smooth movement for both pedestrians and vehicles. Clearly defined routes cater to specific populations, such as office workers and hotel guests, helping to simplify navigation across the building.

Programmatic Diversity

Within the skyscraper, various functions come together to create a lively environment. The design includes retail areas, a foyer, concert halls, hotel accommodations, and cultural spaces like museums. This variety enhances the building's role as a center for community activities and cultural education. Each program is crafted to provide rich experiences, allowing occupants to engage in different activities and interactions as they move through the space.

Architectural Features

Key architectural elements, such as the grand staircase leading to the concert hall, serve both functional and visual purposes. This staircase guides movement while acting as a significant design feature, promoting flow throughout the building. Levels dedicated to concert halls and exhibition spaces enhance the complex's dynamism, inviting visitors to explore and participate in a range of cultural offerings. The addition of outdoor terraces further enriches the experience, creating spaces for leisure and interaction with the environment.

The design allows for a meaningful connection to the scenic views of the adjacent river. Opportunities to witness sunsets from various vantage points within the skyscraper provide a reflective quality to the overall 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

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