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Cross-Laminated Timber Pods Integrating Playful Swings for Engaging Outdoor Reading Spaces

Author:
Michelle Mack
Cross-Laminated Timber Pods Integrating Playful Swings for Engaging Outdoor Reading Spaces

Project in-detail

With cross-laminated timber pods incorporating swings for active engagement, the design creates an inviting outdoor area that fosters a love for reading among users of all ages.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
02
Swings integrated within reading pods promote active engagement with literature.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance and a textured aesthetic.
04
The bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural light and ventilation.
05
Modular configuration enables adaptability to various outdoor environments.

## Overview

Located within a naturally landscaped area, the Sway project integrates literary engagement with playful elements inspired by childhood experiences. The design promotes a unique reading environment through innovative spatial strategies and carefully selected materials to enhance user experience while minimizing ecological impact.

## Spatial Strategy

The layout features strategically positioned reading pods that provide both individual and communal spaces for users. Each pod is designed to offer varied engagement with literature through versatile seating options, including swings and benches. The open design allows natural light to filter through overhead covers, establishing a harmonious connection with the surrounding greenery, which contributes to a tranquil reading atmosphere.

## Material Selection

The project utilizes high-quality, sustainable materials to ensure durability and aesthetic appeal. Cross-laminated timber forms the structural framework, offering both strength and flexibility. Plexiglass panels protect swings and library elements while maximizing natural light entry. Sealed plywood is employed for bookcases, enhancing both durability and visual integration. Weather-treated wood ensures resilience against environmental conditions, reinforcing the structure’s outdoor character.

Key design elements include modular swings that provide movement and comfort within reading pods, double-sided bookcases for efficient space usage, and communal features such as benches and bike racks, facilitating a multifunctional and inviting environment. The modular approach allows for adaptability across diverse site conditions, ensuring responsive design that meets user needs while promoting a sense of community and sustainability.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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Chair
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