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Curvilinear Structure with Polycarbonate Walls and Green Roof for Community Reading Space

Authors:
Luca Bigliardi, Daniela Dafarra, Riccardo Colombo
Curvilinear Structure with Polycarbonate Walls and Green Roof for Community Reading Space

Project in-detail

Employing curvilinear steel frameworks and polycarbonate walls, the design creates a reflective and inviting reading space, seamlessly integrating a green roof within an urban setting to promote community literacy and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a curvilinear form to enhance user interaction and flow within the space.
02
Incorporates a green roof that contributes to urban biodiversity and ecological sustainability.
03
Features reflective polycarbonate walls that create visual connectivity with the surrounding environment.
04
Includes modular design elements that allow for easy relocation and adaptability in urban settings.
05
Integrates stainless steel furnishings to ensure durability while maintaining a contemporary aesthetic.
The Portable Reading Room project represents a thoughtful exploration of architecture as a catalyst for community engagement, particularly in urban environments. Designed as a versatile space, the Portable Reading Room serves as a sanctuary for readers of all backgrounds, creating an inviting atmosphere in which literature can be appreciated and shared. The project embodies the belief that architecture can positively influence social interaction and foster a love for reading, making it a significant addition to public spaces.

The design of the Portable Reading Room prioritizes flexibility and adaptability, enabling it to function in various public locations. This modularity allows the installation to be relocated easily, responding to the dynamic nature of urban life. The architectural form features a gentle curve, which not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also creates a sense of flow that encourages movement. The curvature invites pedestrians to approach and engage with the space, breaking the conventional sterility often associated with fixed structures.

Central to the functionality of the reading room is its spatial organization. The interior layout has been meticulously planned to accommodate both quiet reading experiences and vibrant social interactions. Strategic placement of bookshelves provides easy access to literature while creating informal gathering spots for discussions. Seating areas within the room are designed for comfort, encouraging visitors to linger and immerse themselves in books. The arrangement fosters an environment where individuals can easily converse or enjoy solitary reading, catering to diverse user preferences.

The materiality of the project further enhances its design integrity. A careful selection of materials has been made, each chosen for functionality, aesthetic quality, and sustainability. Cold-drawn flat steel bars and C-section steel profiles provide the structural support needed for the installation, ensuring durability while maintaining a lightweight presence. The use of trapezoidal steel profiles in the curtain panels allows for the desired curvature of the design without compromising strength. Stainless steel furnishings, including benches and book boxes, offer longevity and resist wear and tear, crucial for outdoor environments. Additionally, the incorporation of polycarbonate mirrors on the facade allows the reading room to blend harmoniously with its surroundings, reflecting the urban context while establishing a sense of openness.

The integration of greenery through the inclusion of a green roof is another distinctive feature of the Portable Reading Room. This element not only contributes to the aesthetic attractiveness of the project but also plays a vital role in promoting environmental sustainability. The green roof enhances biodiversity and contributes to improved air quality, making the reading room not just a gathering space for literature but also a small oasis within the urban landscape.

This project stands out for its innovative design methods and its commitment to enhancing the public experience. The modularity of the design is particularly noteworthy, as it allows the reading room to adapt to the needs of different neighborhoods and communities. The use of reflective surfaces encourages a dialogue between the structure and its environment, inviting curiosity and interaction from those passing by. Furthermore, the project incorporates practical elements such as bike racks, promoting sustainable transportation methods and aligning with contemporary urban planning trends.

By emphasizing accessibility and user-friendliness, the Portable Reading Room aligns with contemporary architectural ideas that prioritize inclusivity and community engagement. It invites visitors to experience the joy of reading within a thoughtfully designed space that respects and responds to its surroundings. This project exemplifies modern architectural principles that aim to enhance the quality of life in urban settings, making it a valuable resource for communities.

For those interested in learning more about this project, including architectural plans and design specifics, exploring the presentation will provide a deeper understanding of the innovative approaches and ideas that inform this unique architectural endeavor. The insights offered may inspire further investigation into how adaptable designs can influence urban dynamics and community interactions.
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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
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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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