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Algae-Based Reading Rooms Promoting Community Engagement in Urban Spaces

Authors:
Wang Qihong, Li Xiangyuan, Hu Chenghai, Pan Yuanyuan
Algae-Based Reading Rooms Promoting Community Engagement in Urban Spaces
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Employing algae-based materials, this mobile reading room enhances urban landscapes by providing accessible spaces for literature and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mobile reading rooms are designed to adapt to various urban settings.
02
The interior features an H-shaped annular frame for organized book storage.
03
Algae-based materials are utilized for environmental adaptation.
04
Liftable desks and seats allow for customizable space configurations.
05
A dedicated app aids users in finding nearby reading locations and resources.

Telecopic Ball introduces a new way to engage with literature in urban settings. The mobile reading rooms are designed to enhance access to books and encourage people to come together. By focusing on the value of printed materials, the concept creates spaces where individuals can read individually or in groups. It merges the essence of traditional reading with contemporary needs, offering a functional space for meditation, recreation, and social interaction.

Design Concept

The central idea of Telecopic Ball is to bring back the experience of reading in an urban environment. It creates adaptable areas that cater to different preferences. The design allows for both quiet reading and active discussions, encouraging users to connect with literature and each other. Each space thoughtfully considers how best to accommodate varied activities, ensuring that everyone can find a suitable environment.

Functional Features

A key component of the design is its mobile platform. This feature allows the space to make efficient use of limited urban areas. The desks and seats can be lifted and adjusted, making the layout flexible. This adaptability is especially important in crowded cities where traditional layouts might not be practical. The internal structure features an H-shaped annular frame that securely houses books, making them easy to access for anyone who wants to read.

Operational Mechanism

The Telecopic Ball includes an automated system for retrieving books, simplifying how users access materials. When opened, it creates an inviting setting for both quiet contemplation and lively gatherings. A supporting digital application helps users find nearby reading rooms, select books, and check what is available, enhancing the overall experience.

Environmental Integration

These reading rooms are thoughtfully placed in urban centers, parks, and schools. This positioning not only improves access to literature but also supports city-wide reading initiatives. By collecting data on how people use the spaces, the design can adapt to better meet community needs. The choice of algae-based materials highlights a focus on sustainability, ensuring structures can respond effectively to their surroundings.

The circular framework of Telecopic Ball adds to its visual appeal while maintaining the focus on function. It invites exploration and promotes interaction among users, creating an engaging environment for various activities centered around reading.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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