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Volcanic Basalt and Board-Formed Concrete Transforming Public Art Spaces

Author:
Anthony Monica
Volcanic Basalt and Board-Formed Concrete Transforming Public Art Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing volcanic basalt and board-formed concrete, the gallery seamlessly integrates art with its natural surroundings, creating a flexible space for exhibitions and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced volcanic basalt for both durability and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
02
Employs board-formed concrete to create textured surfaces that interact dynamically with light.
03
Features a central spiral staircase that enhances visitor flow and visual connectivity between levels.
04
Incorporates a sculpture garden and plaza to foster community interaction and engagement with the arts.
05
Optimizes natural lighting through strategically placed skylights and expansive windows, enhancing the visitor experience.
The Fictile Gallery represents a contemporary architectural project that integrates art with the surrounding landscape. This cultural space serves as a venue for exhibitions, engaging the public through both indoor and outdoor installations. Its design emphasizes a connection to nature while promoting accessibility and interaction with the environment.

The architectural composition features dynamic geometries that echo the natural forms of the local terrain, creating a striking silhouette. The gallery is structured to encourage exploration, with various levels and open spaces that invite visitors to traverse through the building seamlessly. The use of expansive windows and skylights enhances the relationship between interior environments and the external landscape, allowing natural light to permeate the space and highlight displayed artworks.

Unique Design Approaches

The Fictile Gallery employs an innovative approach to material selection. The primary structural element is board-formed concrete, which provides thermal efficiency and textural depth. Local red birch is used for interior wood cladding, adding a warm, tactile quality that contrasts with the concrete exterior. Additionally, the use of local volcanic basalt as an external cladding material roots the building in its geographical context, providing durability while respecting regional aesthetics.

The design incorporates community engagement areas, including a plaza and a sculpture garden, which encourage social interaction and public participation. These spaces are not just adjuncts; they are integral to the gallery's function, allowing for performances and art installations that extend the visitor experience beyond traditional exhibition practices.

Architectural Strategies

The layout of the gallery facilitates flexible art display configurations, departing from the conventional "white box" model. The central spiral staircase serves as a focal point, connecting multiple levels while ensuring smooth circulation throughout the building. This design choice enhances visitor movement and interaction with the exhibited works.

Through careful consideration of natural light, the project enhances the overall experience of the gallery. The strategic placement of windows and skylights optimizes illumination throughout the day, allowing artistic displays to respond to changing light conditions.

The Fictile Gallery showcases a balance of architectural effectiveness and artistic engagement. For further details, one is encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs to gain a deeper understanding of this innovative project.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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