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Galvanized Form and Natural Wood Create a Community Reading Haven

Author:
Jonathan Durman
Galvanized Form and Natural Wood Create a Community Reading Haven

Project in-detail

Utilizing galvanized steel and natural wood, the Reading Quarter offers a unique outdoor environment that encourages community engagement through reading and book exchange.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure uses a square geometry for versatile placement in various environments.
02
Integrated planting areas enhance the reading experience by providing natural buffers.
03
The book exchange boxes feature three shelves tailored for different age groups.
04
Galvanized steel elements ensure durability against weather-related wear.
05
Easy visibility of book titles is achieved through Perspex sheeting in the exchange boxes.

The Reading Quarter is a space designed to support and encourage reading within communities. Located in accessible areas, it seeks to create a welcoming environment where users of all ages can connect with literature. Its design focuses on making reading a comfortable and engaging experience, with a structure that combines simplicity, functionality, and interaction with the outdoors.

Design Intent

The layout of the Reading Quarter features a square shape that facilitates easy adaptation to different locations. This straightforward geometry allows the structure to fit well in urban settings, using basic resources for construction. The design accommodates seating for up to eight individuals and includes designated areas for bicycles and book exchange boxes. By promoting local engagement, it encourages community members to gather and share their love of reading.

Spatial Organization

The arrangement of spaces is carefully thought out to enhance user experience. Comfortable seating is paired with a central planting area, which creates visual interest and provides a natural buffer between different seating zones. This greenery not only adds aesthetic value but also helps users feel more connected to nature during their reading time. The thoughtful spatial layout invites people to linger, fostering a quiet and reflective atmosphere.

Weather Considerations

The design takes various weather conditions into account with features that improve outdoor comfort. The roof of the Reading Quarter offers adequate shading to protect readers from the sun during warm days. Subtle overhangs made from galvanized steel guide rainwater away from seating areas, ensuring a dry and pleasant environment. Additionally, the base of the structure is also lined with galvanized steel for protection against moisture.

Material Selection

The choice of materials reflects an awareness of both functionality and the environment. Wood forms the main structural component, valued for its availability and lower impact on the environment compared to other materials. Brushed aluminum is used for details like bike racks, providing durability and a modern touch. For the access points of the book exchange boxes, Perspex sheeting is selected to allow visibility while safeguarding the books inside. These material decisions reinforce the Reading Quarter's connection to its surroundings while serving practical needs.

Integrated planting brings life to the space, creating shaded areas that invite people to sit and read. The design encourages exploration and connection with literature, making it a valuable addition to any community.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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