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Volcanic-Inspired Form With Vegetated Roofing and Fair-Faced Concrete Enhances Community Engagement

Authors:
Jiajun Tang, Bo Zhang, Tianqi Dong, Botao Zhang
Volcanic-Inspired Form With Vegetated Roofing and Fair-Faced Concrete Enhances Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Inspired by volcanic forms, the structure features a unique combination of fair-faced concrete and lush green roofing to create a community-centered space for cultural engagement and activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by volcanic formations, the structure features a roof design that mimics natural landforms.
02
The green roofing supports a diverse ecosystem, enhancing local biodiversity.
03
Fair-faced concrete provides a raw aesthetic while ensuring structural integrity.
04
Large glass curtain walls maximize natural light and connect indoor spaces with nature.
05
A multi-purpose exhibition hall allows flexibility for cultural events and community activities.
The Hill of Aurora is an architectural project designed to seamlessly integrate with its natural surroundings, specifically inspired by volcanic formations. Situated in a landscape characterized by rolling hills and rich ecological diversity, the project emphasizes harmony between built and natural environments. The architectural concept revolves around creating a structure that both emerges from and coexists with its landscape, offering a unique spatial experience for occupants and visitors alike.

The building occupies an area of approximately 2,358 square meters and is composed of two levels with a maximum height of 10.5 meters. Its design features a looped pedestrian pathway leading from a parking area through an ecological green space, facilitating interaction with the natural elements. This thoughtful site layout promotes accessibility while simultaneously preserving the integrity of the surrounding environment.

Innovative Roofing and Natural Integration

A distinctive feature of The Hill of Aurora is its unconventional roofing system, characterized by flake-shaped forms that mimic the contours of the surrounding hills. This design approach serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, allowing the building to blend seamlessly into the landscape while providing additional green spaces on the roof. The green roofs support a diverse range of plant life, which contributes to enhanced biodiversity and improved energy efficiency for the structure.

The use of fair-faced concrete as the primary material reinforces the building's relationship with the earth, while large glass curtain walls ensure abundant natural light within the interiors. The integration of stone paving for pedestrian pathways further enhances the natural aesthetic of the project, providing a tactile and visual connection to the landscape.

Multi-Functional Spaces and Community Engagement

Internally, The Hill of Aurora offers flexible spaces designed to cater to various community activities. A notable aspect is the multi-purpose exhibition hall, which can accommodate a range of events and functions that reflect local culture. The open-plan design enhances interactions among occupants while promoting a sense of community involvement and ownership.

Additionally, principles of natural ventilation and rainwater harvesting are likely incorporated into the architectural design, further enhancing the project's sustainability. This focus on eco-friendly practices aligns with contemporary architectural trends aimed at reducing environmental impact and fostering a connection to nature.

For a more detailed exploration of The Hill of Aurora and its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, consider reviewing the full project presentation. This will provide deeper insights into the construction methods, material choices, and spatial configurations that define this unique architectural endeavor.
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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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