Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Cultural Textiles and Portable Book Cartridges in a Community Reading Space

Authors:
Lonsai Kangkhao, Thanapat Petchdee, Sadanun Chittanonda, Wattana Songpetchmongkol
Cultural Textiles and Portable Book Cartridges in a Community Reading Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing a grid modular system and integrating local textiles, the design creates portable book cartridges that transform community interaction and literacy through an accessible reading space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Community members can access books through a modular 'Book Cartridges' system, resembling an ATM.
02
The design incorporates local textiles, reflecting the cultural identity of the area.
03
Each cartridge is designed for portability, encouraging easy book exchange throughout the neighborhood.
04
The layout features an open configuration, promoting accessibility and natural navigation.
05
A grid modular system allows for flexible adaptations based on changing community needs.

The Book Cartridges project reimagines the library by placing it in a modern context that encourages community engagement and easy access to literature. The design functions as a modular reading space, aimed at promoting interaction among residents while offering innovative methods for borrowing and exchanging books. Flexibility is a core principle, allowing the environment to adapt to various reading and learning needs.

Community-Centric Design

At the center of the design is the 'Book Cartridges' system, which operates much like an ATM, enabling people to borrow and exchange books effortlessly. This approach makes literature more accessible on a personal level and encourages social connections within the community. Each cartridge is designed to be portable, allowing individuals to transport books easily throughout the urban area.

Modular Configuration

The layout uses a grid modular system that maximizes adaptability. It includes shelving, furniture, and shaded areas that can create different reading environments based on local requirements. Open accessibility is a vital feature, making it easy for users to enter and navigate the space. This design fosters a welcoming atmosphere where exploration and engagement with literature can thrive.

Cultural Integration

Cultural textiles play a significant role in the design, enhancing the sense of place and identity. Using materials like wood or local materials along with polycarbonate panels for waterproofing, the structure balances functionality and visual appeal. Traditional fabrics, such as Japanese textiles and Guatemalan weaving, add depth by bringing local heritage into the experience, reinforcing connections among community members.

The design focuses not just on practical use but also on creating a sense of belonging. The cartridges are transparent, allowing users to see the contents inside. This openness invites interaction and exploration, leading to a lively atmosphere that encourages learning and conversation. Each detail contributes to a space that is both functional and enriching.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy