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Dual-Function Modular Reading Space with Motion-Sensing Technology and Solar Energy

Authors:
Shanya Gupta, Abhishek Singh Rana
Dual-Function Modular Reading Space with Motion-Sensing Technology and Solar Energy
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Equipped with energy-efficient solar panels and motion-sensing lighting, the reading room integrates modular seating and RFID technology within a park setting to foster community engagement through literature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Community-controlled content encourages active participation in the reading room.
02
The tree feature symbolizes nature while providing shade and comfort.
03
Motion-sensing technology enhances visibility and safety during evening use.
04
Integrated bicycle stands promote sustainable transportation options.
05
Solar panels ensure the reading room is operational 24/7, emphasizing energy efficiency.

RE-KINDLE aims to redefine how libraries function by placing reading spaces within public parks. By doing this, it seeks to make literature more accessible and encourage community involvement. The design encourages everyday interactions with reading, allowing people to see books as a natural part of their lives while enjoying the outdoors.

Design Concept

The reading room serves as a bridge between the community and local libraries, promoting exchange and collaboration. By locating this space in a park, it taps into the natural social dynamics that occur in such settings. This makes it easier for individuals to incorporate reading into their daily routines and engage with each other in a meaningful way.



Architectural Features

The design includes a semi-open sheltered space featuring modular seating and shelving. This creates a flexible environment where people can study alone or gather with friends. The seating areas are designed to fit two people and are equipped with motion-sensing lights to ensure good visibility during the evening. This attention to lighting enhances safety and encourages more prolonged use of the space.



Sustainability and Infrastructure

Sustainable infrastructure is a key consideration in the reading room design. Bicycle stands are incorporated into the seating modules, promoting eco-friendly transportation. Additionally, solar panels and battery storage ensure that the reading room remains functional at all times. These elements highlight a commitment to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.



Natural Elements

A significant aspect of the design is the inclusion of a tree, which symbolizes the reading room while providing shade and comfort. The tree, inspired by the Amaltas (Cassia fistula), adds to the visual appeal of the area. Its changing features throughout the seasons make the reading room adaptable, enhancing the overall experience for users. The introduction of natural elements not only beautifies the setting but also helps create a calming atmosphere, inviting people to explore literature amid the park’s greenery.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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