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Hexagonal Community Pods Crafted From Sustainable Timber for Engaging Public Spaces

Authors:
Elisabeth Martin, Lindsay Duddy, Caitlin Mcmanus
Hexagonal Community Pods Crafted From Sustainable Timber for Engaging Public Spaces

Project in-detail

Crafted from modular hexagonal units of sustainable timber, the reading pods transform public spaces into interactive literary hubs, inviting community engagement through accessible and adaptable design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted primarily from sustainable cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
02
Hexagonal modular configuration allows for versatile arrangements and reconfiguration.
03
Charred wooden shingles used for weather protection and aesthetic appeal.
04
Designed with integrated bike racks to promote environmentally friendly transportation.
05
Open slatted walls enhance ventilation while providing visibility and connection to the surroundings.
The BibliFlex project is designed as a modular reading room, aimed at enhancing public engagement with literature in urban settings. It utilizes a series of interconnected hexagonal pods that serve as versatile and accessible spaces for reading and community activities. The project's layout promotes interaction and collaboration among users, making reading a communal experience while integrating seamlessly into the urban fabric, particularly in locations like Brooklyn's Grand Army Plaza.

The primary function of BibliFlex is to provide a welcoming environment for individuals and groups to engage with books and reading materials. Each modular unit offers seating arrangements that support both solitary reading and group gatherings, fostering a culture of literacy and community involvement. The design includes essential features such as book bins and bike racks, encouraging convenience and promoting sustainable transportation options. These aspects reflect an understanding of the diverse needs of the community.

A key differentiator of this project is its modularity. Unlike traditional library spaces, BibliFlex can be tailored to various environments and user requirements. Its hexagonal configuration allows for easy assembly and reconfiguration, which is critical in a dynamic urban landscape. This adaptability not only addresses spatial constraints but also enhances the user experience by allowing for flexible programming and diverse activities within the pods.

The use of sustainable materials, primarily wood, emphasizes the project's commitment to environmental considerations. The architectural design creates a warm and inviting aesthetic that contrasts with the surrounding urban environment, making it a visually appealing addition to public spaces. Additionally, the open design features, such as slatted walls, promote ventilation while protecting reading materials from the elements, linking architecture with functionality and user comfort.

The BibliFlex project embodies a forward-thinking approach to public architecture by merging community needs with sustainable practices. Its architectural design reflects a careful consideration of how structure can foster reading and community interaction. For a more comprehensive understanding, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the innovative ideas that underpin this project.
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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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