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Exploring Natural Light Through Transparent Glass Facades and Sustainable Concrete Construction

Author:
Zirong Song
Exploring Natural Light Through Transparent Glass Facades and Sustainable Concrete Construction

Project in-detail

Situated within a framework of sustainability, the library integrates extensive glass facades and durable concrete, creating an interactive environment that fosters educational engagement and community collaboration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrated transparent glass facades enhance natural light and visual connectivity throughout the library.
02
Adaptive interior layouts allow for flexible usage and reconfiguration to suit various group activities.
03
A unique bent A-frame design promotes both structural efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
04
Sustainable materials, including charred wooden shingles, contribute to environmental sensitivity and resilience.
05
Strategic zoning fosters distinct areas for individual study, collaboration, and public engagement.
The "Library of Forking Paths" is an architectural project developed for the University of Milan, located in Lombardy, Italy. It aims to reshape traditional library functions by creating a space that promotes interaction, collaboration, and learning. The design integrates advanced structural solutions with a focus on user experience.

The project encompasses multiple functional zones, including study areas, collaborative spaces, and public meeting points, each designed to facilitate different forms of engagement. The library is characterized by an open layout that encourages movement and visual connectivity between spaces. The incorporation of vertical elements like atriums and staircases enhances the spatial experience, guiding users through the building.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the design, with a carefully curated palette that includes concrete, wood, glass, and steel. Concrete serves as the primary structural component, ensuring durability, while wood adds warmth to the interior and is used in furniture design. Extensive use of glass maximizes natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere, while steel elements provide structural integrity and aesthetic modernity.

Unique aspects of this project include its adaptive layout. The interior design allows for flexibility, accommodating varying group sizes and functions to meet user needs. This approach is in line with contemporary trends in library design that value user agency in space utilization. Moreover, the integration of technology throughout the library supports both physical and digital learning environments, making the space relevant to current educational demands.

The emphasis on natural light and outdoor integration enhances user well-being and connects the library to its surroundings. By focusing on user experience while maintaining academic functionality, the "Library of Forking Paths" represents a modern approach to library architecture, setting a standard for future educational spaces.

For detailed architectural plans, sections, and insights into the design process, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Delving into the architectural designs and ideas will provide a greater understanding of how this project challenges conventional library frameworks.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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