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Corten Steel and Plywood Modules Create a Dynamic Community Hub for Reading and Interaction

Author:
Simona Guergova
Corten Steel and Plywood Modules Create a Dynamic Community Hub for Reading and Interaction

Project in-detail

Constructed with Corten steel and plywood, the modular structures facilitate community interaction and reading exchanges, serving as a flexible hub within an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for easy reconfiguration of spaces based on community needs.
02
Corten steel provides weather resistance and durability for outdoor use.
03
The reading space features movable seating for flexibility in user arrangement.
04
An eyeglasses-inspired bike rack enhances thematic coherence across the project.
05
Access to the book exchange box is designed for 360-degree interactions.

The "Open Book" project is an innovative architectural design that emphasizes community engagement through a series of modular structures. It is inspired by the metaphor of a book, representing knowledge sharing and social interaction. This project serves multiple functions, including a reading space, a book exchange, and a bicycle parking area. The carefully designed modules are interconnected while remaining distinct, allowing for flexible use in public settings, particularly in urban environments.

The primary module resembles the open pages of a book, providing an inviting space for users to gather and read. Its open design promotes visibility and accessibility, encouraging community interaction. Structured from durable materials, the module incorporates steel and wood, which foster a visual as well as functional harmony within the urban landscape.

Unique Design Approaches

What sets the "Open Book" project apart from other architectural designs is its emphasis on easy adaptability and modularity. Each module is designed to be portable and can be assembled or disassembled with minimal effort. This flexibility ensures that the structures can be integrated into various environments, accommodating different community needs over time. Additionally, the bike rack is creatively designed to resemble eyeglasses, enhancing the project’s thematic coherence and visual appeal. The lightweight design promotes easy movement, while Corten steel provides durability against weather conditions, ensuring longevity.

Architectural Configuration

The overall configuration of the project focuses on creating a cohesive environment that fosters social interaction. The reading space offers movable seating, allowing users to rearrange the area as desired. The book exchange module, resembling an inkwell, is accessible from all sides, promoting a seamless flow of interaction among users. The circular design of the book exchange enhances visibility, inviting more individuals to participate in the literary sharing initiative.

The materials used for each module were selected not only for their aesthetic qualities but also for their practicality in an urban setting. The use of plywood for shelves balances weight and stability, while the incorporation of minimal concrete foundations minimizes environmental impact.

Explore the project presentation to gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that detail the thoughtful execution and strategic components of this engaging community-focused project.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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