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Vertical Wooden Logs Integrating Community Spaces in Downtown Tokyo

Authors:
Yong Huang, Trevor Hibbs, Chenglang Xia
Vertical Wooden Logs Integrating Community Spaces in Downtown Tokyo
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Stacked wooden logs form a complex network of adaptable office and retail spaces, creating a vertical street that harmonizes with the historical context of downtown Tokyo.
5 key facts about this project
01
Wooden blocks are arranged along Cartesian grids, fostering a unique spatial dialogue with the surroundings.
02
Each block functions as a four-story unit, enabling diverse office and commercial configurations.
03
The design incorporates a vertical street, enhancing urban connectivity and pedestrian engagement.
04
Large windows maximize natural light while maintaining visual harmony with the urban landscape.
05
The structure references Metabolist principles, presenting a living organism that adapts to community needs.

The recent development on the site of the former Nakagin Capsule Tower in downtown Tokyo marks an important shift in the interpretation of Metabolist architecture. The design focuses on adaptability for modern work environments while recognizing the historical significance of the earlier structure. It combines innovative thinking with a sense of continuity, creating a new architectural landmark for the city.

Design Concept and Structure
The project features a series of rectangular wooden blocks organized along Cartesian grids. This arrangement fosters a connection with the surrounding urban environment and pays respect to the legacy of the Capsule Tower. By moving beyond the traditional modular approach, the design introduces a new structural concept that highlights flexibility and interconnectedness.

Spatial Organization
Each wooden block is designed as a four-story unit, resembling a large "wooden log." This design choice shapes the interior while ensuring structural stability. The logs stack to form a complex network of spaces, incorporating solids and voids. This arrangement allows various office configurations, supporting both shared and private workspaces alongside commercial areas.

Urban Integration
The project creates a vertical street that contributes to the lively character of downtown Tokyo. Retail and dining spaces are thoughtfully distributed throughout the building, from the ground level to higher floors. This multi-level approach encourages foot traffic and interaction, enhancing the overall experience for visitors and residents alike.

Community Engagement
Inspired by the idea of organic growth from Metabolist theory, the building functions like a living organism. It aims to provide a sustainable environment that meets the evolving needs of the community. With a mix of flexible workspaces and public areas, the design promotes collaboration and emphasizes the significance of community in urban development.

Large windows on the building's façade allow ample natural light into the interior spaces, creating a bright atmosphere. This feature not only enhances the experience of the occupants but also maintains visual harmony with the surrounding urban landscape.

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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

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