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Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Spaces Enhance Urban Reading Stations

Author:
Yuval Rabi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Spaces Enhance Urban Reading Stations

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and adaptable seating, the urban reading station creates a multifunctional space that encourages community engagement and promotes literacy among city dwellers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates movable shelving to allow flexible use of space for various activities.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels to promote sustainability and structural integrity.
04
Adopts a bent A-frame design to create an inviting, open interior atmosphere.
05
Integrates seating designed for communal interaction, encouraging user engagement.
The Rhi-zones project is an architectural initiative designed to promote literacy and foster community interaction in urban environments. At its core, the project serves as an urban reading station, merging functionality with a commitment to sustainable design. The spatial arrangement invites users to engage with literature while facilitating social connections, making it a versatile addition to the urban landscape.

The design features a fluid and adaptable structure with multiple entrances to ensure accessibility for diverse user groups. Central components include movable shelving units, foldable seating, and flexible gathering spaces that accommodate both individual reading and group interactions. This adaptability allows the structure to respond to changing user needs and encourages spontaneous engagement, breaking the boundaries between solitary and communal activities.

Unique Design Approaches

One defining characteristic of the Rhi-zones project is its emphasis on user interaction. The architecture includes elements designed for movement and versatility, minimizing the barriers between passive usage and engagement. The inclusion of foldable benches and sliding bookshelves promotes an active experience, allowing individuals to customize their environment according to their preferences.

Additionally, the material choices play a significant role in the project's conceptual narrative. Utilizing wood for its natural aesthetic and sustainability aligns the structure with ecological principles. The blend of metal accents enhances structural integrity while marrying modern design with traditional warmth, creating a dialogue between different architectural languages.

Another notable aspect is the project’s focus on storytelling, both through its physical form and its intended use. By positioning reading as a communal experience, it underscores the idea that literature connects individuals, inviting them to explore their personal narratives within the shared urban context.

Community Engagement and Functionality

Designed to serve a dual purpose, the Rhi-zones project functions as both a literary hub and a community gathering space. It incorporates features aimed at enhancing social interaction, such as small amphitheater-like seating arrangements that can accommodate events or readings. These design decisions aim to activate public spaces, creating environments where interactions can be organically fostered.

The architectural design elements lend themselves to adaptability, ensuring that the project can evolve over time. Its open layout encourages creativity in how users engage with the space, whether for quiet reflection or active discussion, positioning the project as a dynamic component of urban life.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the architectural principles and elements of the Rhi-zones project, we encourage readers to explore the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas presented in the project materials. This exploration will provide valuable insights into how the project successfully integrates community needs with innovative architectural solutions.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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