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Biophilic Design Utilizing Triangular Wood Panels for Community Reading in Natural Setting

Authors:
Leonhard Geiling, Magdalena Haas
Biophilic Design Utilizing Triangular Wood Panels for Community Reading in Natural Setting

Project in-detail

Utilizing triangular wood panels and sustainable materials, this structure creates an immersive reading environment that fosters connection with nature while serving as a communal space for relaxation and literary engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes triangular geometry to reflect natural forms found in the forest.
02
Incorporates lightweight materials for ease of assembly and transport.
03
Features a modular design that allows for flexible spatial arrangements.
04
Design elements include a dedicated birdwatching gallery for nature interaction.
05
Employs biophilic design principles to enhance user connection with the environment.

### Project Overview
The Reading Rock is located in a forested area near Ruhpolding, Germany, positioned strategically between Munich and Salzburg. Its intent is to create a multi-functional space that accommodates reading, relaxation, and wildlife observation, fostering a direct engagement with the natural environment. The design integrates architectural elements with the surrounding landscape, emphasizing a relationship that promotes both wellness and community interaction.

### Spatial Configuration
The architectural form of The Reading Rock is defined by an arrangement of equilateral triangles, which draw inspiration from the shape of spruce trees. This geometric approach not only provides a sculptural quality but also enhances the organic character of the structure, enabling it to blend fluently with the woodland context. The interior layout is thoughtfully designed to include distinct areas for various activities: an upholstered reading spot for comfort, a birdwatching gallery that prioritizes visibility, and a multifunctional book box that serves both storage and seating purposes. The open design allows visitors to experience seasonal changes through sensory interactions with the environment.

### Materiality and Sustainable Practices
Construction utilizes a combination of wooden panels and metal connectors, fostering a resilient yet visually engaging framework. Wooden panels are lightweight and durable, measuring 1.5 meters on each edge, while steel connectors incorporate socket set screws that enhance structural integrity. Metric screws and hexagon nuts secure these elements, allowing for straightforward assembly and disassembly. The project emphasizes modularity, enabling customized adaptations based on site-specific requirements. Materials are sourced locally, and recyclable components are prioritized to reduce the overall environmental impact, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable design practices.

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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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