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Birch Plywood and Silicone Glass-Fabric Create a Dynamic Educational Space

Authors:
Fatmah Almorohen, Zainab Alramadan, Razan Algamdi, Deem Alsulaim
Birch Plywood and Silicone Glass-Fabric Create a Dynamic Educational Space

Project in-detail

With a dynamic roofline inspired by open books and constructed using birch plywood and silicone glass-fabric, the educational space fosters interaction and learning through innovative design elements and sustainable features.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the fluidity of bird flight, the roofline mimics the silhouette of an open book.
02
Integrated solar panels enhance sustainability while providing energy for the educational space.
03
Seating arrangements incorporate flexible mats made from birch plywood and ripstop nylon.
04
Bookshelves feature built-in charging stations to accommodate modern technology needs.
05
Silicone glass-fabric provides a lightweight yet durable enclosure, enhancing the interior experience.

The recent project is situated in an urban area, designed as a multifunctional educational space that encourages learning and interaction. The overall design concept is founded on two central ideas: inspiration drawn from birds and the art of origami. These concepts shape both the aesthetic character and the functional layout of the structure, creating an inviting and engaging environment.

Inspiration from Birds

The design takes cues from birds, highlighting the uplifting nature of knowledge. Just as birds fly and gain a broader view of their surroundings, the architecture embodies a feeling of elevation and openness. Fluid lines and spacious areas characterize the forms, fostering visibility and encouraging exploration. This thoughtful arrangement reflects the belief that gaining knowledge can lead to individual and collective growth.

Integration of Origami

The origami principle further enhances the design by introducing an element of flexibility. It mimics the folds and transformations found in paper art, allowing for creative structural solutions. By weaving these concepts into the architectural framework, the design incorporates features that adapt to their surroundings. This flexibility promotes a captivating user experience, where the forms seem active and responsive.

Materiality

Several materials have been selected for their usability and visual impact. Wood is chosen for seating areas, while silicone-coated glass-fabric, birch plywood, and ripstop nylon panels provide additional features. Each material contributes to durability without sacrificing appearance. The silicone-coated glass-fabric gives the structure a lightweight feel, while birch plywood adds a warm touch. Together, these materials create a welcoming atmosphere suitable for educational purposes.

Functional Elements

The design includes various features aimed at enhancing user experiences. Seating is arranged for comfort and practicality, integrating solar panels and a sprinkler system to focus on environmental sustainability. Moreover, bookshelves equipped with charging stations meet modern technology needs, allowing easy access for users. These elements work together to foster an environment where learning can thrive.

The architectural design culminates in thoughtful details, such as the roofline that evokes an open book. This subtle reference invites users into a space where knowledge and creativity flourish.

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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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