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Diagonal Facades Create Unique Reading Spaces in Timber Structure

Author:
Moritz Koch
Diagonal Facades Create Unique Reading Spaces in Timber Structure

Project in-detail

With its diagonal facades and natural wood elements, the reading space integrates seamlessly into its surroundings while providing an inviting environment for community engagement and literacy.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dual reading environments allow for private and communal reading experiences.
02
Large windows create an airy atmosphere and enhance natural light throughout the space.
03
The entry design resembles a golden ratio, promoting seamless transitions for users.
04
Modular connections enable flexibility and expansion for various community uses.
05
Wooden materials ensure weatherproof functionality year-round while enhancing aesthetics.

THE COVER is an architectural project that uses geometry in an interesting way. Located in public areas like parks and pedestrian paths, it functions as a reading space that promotes literacy and community interaction. The design is based on a simple cube shape, balancing form and function effectively to create an inviting environment.

Form and Function

The cube serves as the main geometric element, with diagonal cuts on each side creating both solid and void spaces. This design choice enhances the use of space while also supporting the overall idea of the project. The dark roof, featuring an opening to the sky, resembles an open book cover, linking the building to its purpose of providing a place for reading.

Spatial Configuration

Inside, the reading rooms are laid out to make the best use of their compact size. The entry is designed to guide visitors smoothly from the outside to the inside, using principles similar to the golden ratio. This helps foster interaction while allowing people to appreciate the architecture from different angles, creating a connection with both the space and nature around it.

Natural Lighting and Environment

Large windows play an important role in this design. They let in plenty of natural light and help blend the inside with the outdoors. When opened, these windows create an airy feeling that enhances the reading experience. The symmetrical layout, coupled with different facades, gives visitors distinct visual experiences as they approach the structure.

Materiality and Sustainability

Wood is the primary material used, offering both durability and warmth. This material choice supports the functionality of the building, making it weatherproof and usable throughout the year. The special quality of the wood not only enhances the space aesthetically but also contributes to sustainability.

Finally, the design encourages flexibility. Different units can connect to create a larger arrangement that supports various reading activities.

Standing in its environment, THE COVER provides a laid-back yet purposeful space that invites everyone to explore the world of reading.

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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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