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Community Reading Pavilions Featuring Laminated Timber and Perforated Metal Canopies in Sarajevo

Authors:
Kenan Vatrenjak, Nedim Mutevelić, Asmir Mutevelić, Ibrica Jašarević
Community Reading Pavilions Featuring Laminated Timber and Perforated Metal Canopies in Sarajevo

Project in-detail

This architectural endeavor features a series of modular pavilions crafted from laminated wood panels and complemented by perforated metal canopies, all designed to create inviting community reading spaces that harmonize with Sarajevo’s rich cultural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The pavilions incorporate angular canopies designed to evoke the form of an open book, symbolizing a connection to literature.
02
Each unit's structure utilizes steel square tubes, allowing for a lightweight yet stable framework that supports the modular design.
03
The use of perforated metal ceilings enhances natural light diffusion while providing a unique aesthetic that complements the surroundings.
04
Integrated wooden benches within the pavilions are designed for comfort and encourage social interaction among visitors.
05
The architectural layout emphasizes seamless connectivity between pavilions, promoting a fluid experience that fosters community engagement in a natural setting.
The project titled "Reading Corners" represents a thoughtful exploration of architectural design aimed at fostering community interaction and promoting literacy in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. This initiative embodies a response to the historical context of the National Library, which faced destruction during the Bosnian War. The design is centered around the idea of creating intimate spaces that encourage reading and building a connection between individuals and their cultural heritage.

The primary function of Reading Corners is to provide accessible, engaging environments where people can discover literature and participate in community activities. Each structure serves as a small pavilion, designed to invite users into a sheltered reading space that is both welcoming and functional. The architectural approach emphasizes the balance between private contemplation and communal engagement, addressing diverse user needs.

Key components of the project include modular pavilions constructed from laminate wood panels and steel frame structures. This combination not only ensures durability but also contributes to a sense of warmth and comfort within the spaces. The pavilions feature angular canopies reminiscent of an open book, symbolically linking the design to the act of reading while creating visually appealing forms.

The ceiling of each pavilion is thoughtfully designed using perforated metal sheets, allowing for filtered natural light to create a pleasant atmosphere. This intentional design choice not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the space but also helps to reduce glare and maintain a comfortable environment for readers. Furthermore, polycarbonate sheet covering adds an element of transparency, connecting the interior reading areas to their surrounding environment, thereby nurturing a sense of belonging within the natural landscape.

Wooden benches thoughtfully integrated within the pavilions promote comfort and encourage individuals to linger, fostering a culture of reading and exchange. The unique arrangement of these pavilions in a network creates a fluid and inviting space, where users can seamlessly transition from one area to another. This connectivity reinforces community ties and enhances the overall experience, allowing for collective learning and interaction.

Distinctive design approaches characterize Reading Corners. The project embraces the natural environment, utilizing landscaping as an integral part of the user experience. By positioning the pavilions amidst existing greenery, the design promotes a harmonious interaction between architecture and nature. Additionally, the flexibility of the pavilions opens up possibilities for various community events, workshops, and readings, making it a lively hub for cultural engagement.

In essence, Reading Corners is not merely an architectural project; it is a meaningful endeavor that addresses cultural and social needs in a post-conflict context. Its thoughtful design and functionality serve to revive the importance of literacy and community connection, highlighting the value of public spaces in urban environments.

For a deeper understanding of the Reading Corners project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs that illustrate the project’s innovative approach to engaging communities through architecture. These elements offer significant insights into the intention and execution of the design, further enriching the conversation surrounding this important initiative.
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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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