Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Extendable Reading Space With Dual-Sided Bookcase and X-Shaped Design

Author:
Kieu trinh Phi van
Extendable Reading Space With Dual-Sided Bookcase and X-Shaped Design

Project in-detail

With an extendable chair and an x-shaped design, the reading space provides comfortable access to literature through a dual-sided bookcase, encouraging community engagement in urban environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Extendable chair allows for adjustable comfort while reading.
02
Dual-sided bookcase invites exploration from both visitors and passersby.
03
X-shaped design elements function as practical handles for sliding doors.
04
Weather protection is provided with a roof and three-sided enclosure.
05
Modular construction enables easy assembly and disassembly for various locations.

The "bookXchange" Portable Reading Room is designed to improve access to books in urban settings. It aims to create a friendly space for reading and gathering. The structure is compact and modular, allowing for easy setup and takedown. This makes it suitable for various public locations. The project focuses on the significance of physical books, promoting community engagement and appreciation for reading.

Design Concept

The overall design centers on flexibility and portability. The structure can adapt to different urban environments, providing a refreshing space where people can read. An extendable chair with an adjustable backrest and armrests is a key feature. It ensures user comfort and invites people to spend time with a book. The thoughtfully designed seating area encourages engagement in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

Spatial Arrangement

Inside the Reading Room, the layout enhances the experience for visitors. A bookcase is placed next to the seating, making it easy for users to access a variety of books. This dual-sided bookcase invites curiosity and exploration from those passing by. The interior space accommodates two people comfortably, with an optional partition wall that can provide privacy. These design choices support both individual and social reading experiences.

Natural Light Integration

Natural light is an important aspect of the design. Openings allow daylight to come into the Reading Room, creating a pleasant environment. The grid structure at the back wall enables a visual connection with the outside, enriching the atmosphere within. Visitors feel comfortable while enjoying the shelter from the rain on three sides. The space benefits from both sunlight and views of the surroundings.

Sustainability and Functionality

Sustainability is a key element, although specific materials are not explicitly mentioned. The design supports principles of reuse and recycling. The x-shaped design elements serve practical purposes, acting as handles for sliding doors on book boxes and the partition wall. Bicycle stands are incorporated behind the Reading Room to encourage environmentally friendly travel. This contributes to the project’s goal of fostering a sense of community and responsibility toward the environment.

The design of "bookXchange" reflects its mission, creating a space that promotes both reading and social connections. The thoughtful arrangement and features invite people to discover books and enjoy the act of reading together.

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