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Volcanic Stone Facade Melding Community Spaces with Terraced Outdoor Areas

Author:
Vlad Osiac

Project in-detail

Harnessing the natural beauty of locally sourced volcanic stone, the design integrates terraced outdoor areas that foster community interaction while serving as a versatile venue for cultural activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates locally sourced volcanic stone, enhancing its connection to the surrounding landscape.
02
Terraced levels are designed to blend seamlessly with the topography, promoting engagement with the natural environment.
03
An outdoor amphitheater facilitates community events, encouraging cultural exchange and interaction among visitors.
04
Large glass panels are strategically placed to maximize natural light and create a visual connection with the exterior landscape.
05
The chimney doubles as a design feature and symbolizes aspiration, integrating both functionality and aesthetic value.
The project, known as "The Great Divide," represents a thoughtful exploration of architectural design that seeks to bridge cultural and physical divides present in landscapes. It embodies a vision that goes beyond spatial planning; it aims to symbolize connection and collaboration in a world often marked by separation. Through its innovative approach, the architecture serves functional purposes while engaging with pressing societal themes.

At its foundation, "The Great Divide" is designed as a multi-use facility that accommodates various community activities and gatherings. The architectural layout reflects the intertwined relationships between different spaces, encouraging interaction and dialogue among visitors. This project prioritizes communal areas that are both inviting and versatile, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose. The careful arrangement of spaces allows for seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor environments, emphasizing the natural beauty surrounding the site.

Several key components define the functionality and aesthetic of this architectural design. A prominent feature is the building's façade, constructed from locally sourced volcanic stone, which not only grounds the structure in its environment but also pays homage to the region’s geological history. Complementing the stone, steel cages are employed as structural supports which hold the stone cladding in place, infusing a contemporary edge to the overall design. This combination of materials illustrates a commitment to sustainability, utilizing elements that are naturally articulated within the landscape while ensuring long-term durability.

The architectural design includes terraced levels that respond thoughtfully to the site’s topography. This creates visual interest while inviting users to explore the outdoor spaces. The terraces not only facilitate various activities but also promote an intimate relationship with the surrounding landscape. Pathways that meander around the property serve as connecting corridors, symbolizing the bridging of social divides. They guide visitors from one area to another, effectively integrating public zones with private spaces and reinforcing the project's intention to promote unity.

An outdoor performance area is also a significant feature of the design. This space encourages cultural engagement and provides a venue for community events, thus facilitating a convergence of diverse audiences. By integrating such areas into the architectural design, "The Great Divide" seeks to foster dialogue and understanding among different groups, aligning with the overarching narrative of connection that the project champions.

The chimney, a unique design element, serves a dual purpose. Functionally, it handles the building’s ventilation needs, but aesthetically, it symbolizes continuity and aspiration, resembling a bridge extending toward the sky. This elevation signifies ambition and the ongoing quest for connection, making it a compelling metaphor within the architectural framework.

The choice of large glass panels throughout the architecture allows for an abundance of natural light, further blurring the lines between the interior and the exterior. This transparency aligns with the project’s conceptual goals, as it welcomes openness and accessibility. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth to the spaces, enriching the overall experience of those who inhabit it.

The design of "The Great Divide" is marked by its unique approach to addressing both functionality and conceptual depth. The integration of various materials, innovative features, and communal spaces demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of how architecture can influence social dynamics. This project not only enhances the physical landscape but also seeks to make a meaningful contribution to the community.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas and execution, I encourage you to explore the project presentation, including aspects such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs. These elements offer valuable insights into the visionary details that make this project noteworthy and relevant in today’s architectural discourse.
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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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