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Bamboo Canopy and Cork Pinboard in a Dynamic Reading Space

Authors:
Tahirah Wellington, Rebecca Redding, Joseane Porfirio de souza, Serena Previti
Bamboo Canopy and Cork Pinboard in a Dynamic Reading Space

Project in-detail

Bamboo canes and a cork totem pole define a reading environment that encourages exploration and community engagement through dynamic pathways and interactive sharing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Uses bamboo canes for structural stair components to enhance sustainability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates a central cork totem pole for anonymous idea sharing among users.
03
Features dynamic pathways that allow for both vertical and lateral movement.
04
Designed as a labyrinth-like reading environment to foster exploration and engagement.
05
Encourages both personal reflection and community interaction through thoughtful spatial organization.

The design introduces a thoughtful approach to creating a reading environment that encourages personal reflection and community interaction. Located within a context that values shared experiences, the space is intended to facilitate movement and discovery. The concept aims to reimagine traditional reading spaces, allowing for dynamic engagement with both literature and fellow readers.

Spatial Dynamics and Movement

Integrating staircases into the layout allows individuals to move both up and sideways. This creates a labyrinth-like experience that invites exploration. Users can choose their paths in the space, enhancing their journey through various sections. The inclusion of multiple routes fosters a sense of curiosity and engagement as people navigate through different areas.

Community Engagement Feature

A central “totem pole” serves as an interactive element within the reading room. This feature invites visitors to share their thoughts anonymously, promoting a culture of dialogue and connection. Positioned prominently, the totem pole becomes a focal point. It illustrates the importance of community in the reading experience, allowing users to exchange ideas and reflect collectively.

Material Considerations

Bamboo canes are chosen for the structural design of the stairs, which emphasizes sustainability and stability. This material aligns well with the overall vision of creating an inviting environment. Cork is also used in constructing the totem pole, inviting users to touch and interact with it. The texture of the cork enhances the sense of warmth and encourages contributions from readers.

User-Centric Environment

The design recognizes that people have different reasons for engaging with reading. Some seek comfort or an escape, while others may want to connect with ideas or discussions. The reading room supports these varied needs with spaces designed for both personal contemplation and community interaction. The thoughtful arrangement of areas encourages individuals to engage with the material in their own way.

At the heart of the space, the cork totem pole stands as a living testament to the collective narratives within the reading environment. Its surface bears the thoughts and reflections of those who interact with it, inviting a continuous exchange of stories and ideas.

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

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Competition organisers

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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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