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Hexagonal Community Hub Crafted from Sustainable Timber and Charred Shingles

Authors:
Elisabeth Martin, Lindsay Duddy, Caitlin Mcmanus
Hexagonal Community Hub Crafted from Sustainable Timber and Charred Shingles

Project in-detail

Crafted from interlocking hexagonal pods of sustainable timber and complemented by charred shingles, this adaptable community hub redefines public space through its innovative design, offering a welcoming environment for reading and collaboration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features hexagonal modular pods that allow for flexible configurations to suit various community activities.
02
Utilizes sustainably sourced wood and charred shingles, enhancing both aesthetics and durability.
03
Incorporates acoustic design elements to ensure a quiet reading environment within public space.
04
Includes integrated bicycle racks, promoting sustainable transportation options for visitors.
05
Designed to optimize natural light through semi-translucent walls, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The BibliFlex project is an innovative architectural design initiative located in Brooklyn's Grand Army Plaza. This project embodies a forward-thinking approach to public space, principally addressing the growing demand for community-focused environments that foster learning and interaction. In its essence, BibliFlex represents a unique interpretation of a library, intended not just for reading but as a multifunctional hub that encourages collaboration, literacy, and community engagement.

At the heart of the design is a series of modular hexagonal pods that reflect the evolving nature of public libraries in an urban context. This spatial configuration promotes flexibility, allowing users to customize the arrangement based on their specific requirements—whether it is for individual study or group discussions. The design’s core function is to facilitate access to knowledge while creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages social interaction among a diverse demographic.

The organization of the BibliFlex project includes an array of architectural elements that serve different purposes. The hexagonal shape of each pod is carefully considered, providing a sense of intimacy while maintaining openness. This is crucial for creating a welcoming environment that invites users to interact with the space and with each other. The structure's design is enhanced by the use of sustainably sourced materials, primarily different types of wood, which contribute to both the aesthetic appeal and the project’s commitment to environmental responsibility. Plywood and wooden slats interlock to form not only the structural framework but also the functional aspects of the design, such as benches and seating areas that encourage relaxation and reading.

Natural light plays a significant role in the overall atmosphere of the space thanks to the semi-translucent layering of materials used in the wall treatments. This design choice promotes a sense of warmth and comfort, creating a pleasant experience for users throughout the day. The acoustic properties of the hexagonal pods have also been optimized to ensure that conversations remain private, enhancing the overall user experience.

A critical component of the BibliFlex design is its emphasis on multifunctionality. Unlike traditional libraries, which may restrict their use to reading, this project encourages diverse activities by integrating features like book bins, common gathering areas, and even bicycle racks. The inclusion of these elements encourages commuters to stop and engage with the space, effectively making the library an extension of the community itself.

The architectural approach to BibliFlex is deeply rooted in the idea of accessibility. By employing a modular design, the project allows for adjustments based on the community’s evolving needs. Whether the space is required for events, workshops, or quiet study sessions, the flexibility built into the pods makes it adaptable to a wide range of scenarios, thus serving a multitude of purposes.

Furthermore, the design of BibliFlex promotes sustainable practices. Utilizing locally sourced materials and biodegradable finishes reflects a growing awareness of the environmental impact that architecture can have. This commitment to sustainability not only influences the construction phase but also serves as an educational tool, inspiring users to consider their relationship with the environment.

The BibliFlex project encapsulates key architectural ideas that resonate with contemporary societal needs. It challenges traditional notions of what a library can be, presenting a model that transcends mere functionality to become a community-centric space. This project invites exploration and provides a platform for ongoing dialogue around literacy, learning, and community engagement.

For those interested in further exploring the details of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and design elements, a comprehensive presentation is available that showcases the thought process and intricacies behind BibliFlex. By engaging with these materials, readers can gain deeper insights into the architectural strategies employed and the broader implications of this design within the context of urban public spaces.
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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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