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Wave-Like Roof of Aluminum Composite and Glass Fosters Light in a Cultural Laboratory

Author:
TONY MANGONE
Wave-Like Roof of Aluminum Composite and Glass Fosters Light in a Cultural Laboratory

Project in-detail

The undulating roof of aluminum composite and glass defines a cultural laboratory in Tokyo, seamlessly integrating light-filled spaces with a focus on community engagement and popular culture.
5 key facts about this project
01
The roof design mimics the waves from Hokusai's artwork, creating a visual connection to Japanese heritage.
02
Natural light is optimized through large skylights integrated into the wave-like structure.
03
The use of aluminum composite panels ensures durability while maintaining a modern aesthetic.
04
Multi-functional spaces are designed to accommodate diverse cultural events and activities.
05
Surrounding landscaping includes thematic gardens that enhance the cultural experience of the building.

### Overview

Located in Tokyo, Japan, the Nami Ura project aims to establish a space dedicated to popular culture, emphasizing the intersection of traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary architectural approaches. The design revolves around the theme "Tradition is Popular; Tradition as Revolution," effectively blending elements of Japan's cultural heritage with modern innovation. This architectural endeavor serves as a laboratory for cultural engagement, reflecting the complexities of change in both the environmental and social spheres.

### Spatial Organization

The interior layout is characterized by open spaces that facilitate creativity and collaboration. Multi-purpose areas are designed to accommodate diverse activities, such as exhibitions and workshops, thus reflecting the dynamic nature of the cultural laboratory. The use of a predominantly white color palette enhances natural light, contributing to an inviting atmosphere and aligning with the project’s sustainable intent. Skylights and strategically positioned windows ensure ample daylight penetration, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and promoting energy efficiency.

### Materiality and Architectural Expression

The building's roof features undulating forms that echo the motifs found in traditional Japanese art, symbolizing a dialogue between the past and the future. The facade is primarily clad in light-colored materials, specifically aluminum composite panels and glass, which provide durability and enhance the building's energy performance. The use of glass elements in the roof facilitates natural light flow, supporting an environmentally conscious design. Surrounding the building is a landscaped environment that likely incorporates green spaces and culturally themed elements, reinforcing the mission of the laboratory as a cultural hub.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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