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Vertical Stainless Steel and Local Wood Intersecting Community Space

Author:
Desiree Castillo
Vertical Stainless Steel and Local Wood Intersecting Community Space

Project in-detail

With vertical stainless steel elements contrasting against horizontal local wood, this community space in Shimokitazawa invites interaction and social engagement in a thoughtfully organized urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project features vertical stainless steel elements that enhance its modern aesthetic.
02
Local wood is used horizontally, creating a contrast with the urban environment.
03
Design promotes natural flow between indoor and outdoor spaces for enhanced interaction.
04
Open circulation routes prioritize accessibility for all users.
05
Strategically placed openings connect occupants visually to the lively street life.

"Silent Intersection" is set in the lively neighborhood of Shimokitazawa, known for its vibrant street life and close-knit community. The design focuses on enhancing social interactions among people in this urban area. At its core, the concept aims to create spaces that promote connection and engagement, allowing individuals to come together in meaningful ways.

Design Concept

The layout of "Silent Intersection" encourages a fluid relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces. Paths are arranged to allow easy movement, inviting users to explore different areas without restriction. This design approach integrates the building with its surroundings, creating a communal space where social encounters can naturally occur.

Material Selection

Materials are key to defining the character of "Silent Intersection." Vertical elements of stainless steel provide a modern contrast to the traditional timber and clay used in many nearby buildings. Horizontal bands of local wood add warmth and interest, building a connection between the new structure and the existing urban fabric.

Architectural Elements

Key features include stainless steel walls, wood roofs, and wood floors, all designed to ensure both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Smaller details, such as metal dowels, contribute to the structure’s strength while enhancing its visual presence. Each component is thoughtfully chosen to create a cohesive look that aligns with contemporary architectural ideas.

User Experience

The emphasis on user experience is evident in the design of social spaces that encourage interaction. Open circulation routes help guide movement, making it easy for visitors to engage with both the building and each other. The arrangement of these spaces fosters a friendly atmosphere, promoting a sense of community among occupants.

At the heart of the design, large openings connect interior areas with the outside, allowing natural light to brighten rooms while linking people visually with the lively street life just beyond.

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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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