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Iridescent Foil Enhances Plywood Seating in Community Reading Spaces

Author:
Megan Mendoza
Iridescent Foil Enhances Plywood Seating in Community Reading Spaces

Project in-detail

Colorful, transparent panels and flexible plywood seating create versatile reading spaces that invite community engagement in outdoor environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Colorful transparent panels create playful light effects within the seating area.
02
Built-in book storage encourages community sharing and engagement.
03
Circular seating arrangements enhance user interaction and inclusivity.
04
Modular design allows for easy reconfiguration and adaptability in different locations.
05
Solar panels provide renewable energy for lighting and sustainability initiatives.
The Outdoor Window Seat is a public architectural design project that focuses on enhancing reading experiences within community spaces. It serves as an intervention in urban environments, providing designated areas for communal and individual reading activities. This project combines thoughtful planning with innovative material use and user-centric design, making it an effective addition to parks and public squares.

The concept integrates flexible seating arrangements to accommodate varying degrees of privacy and social interaction. It features three distinct seating configurations: open seating for collaborative use, semi-private spaces for those seeking some solitude while remaining connected to the community, and fully enclosed areas for personal reflection. This adaptable layout encourages diverse reading practices, fostering a culture of literacy and engagement in public spaces.

The design utilizes plywood for the primary structure, chosen for its lightweight and durable properties. The inclusion of colorful, transparent panels allows for dynamic visual effects, creating an inviting atmosphere as sunlight filters through. The incorporation of solar panels reflects a commitment to sustainability, positioning the project as an environmentally responsible architectural solution. Wood posts serve as structural supports, seamlessly integrating with the natural surroundings while maintaining visual simplicity.

One of the unique features of The Outdoor Window Seat lies in its multifunctional approach. The project not only serves as a seating area but also incorporates built-in book storage, promoting a community book exchange concept. This encourages interaction among users and facilitates access to literature, extending the project’s role beyond merely a physical space.

The circular form of the seating areas reinforces inclusivity and connection among users. By providing varying levels of enclosure, the design allows individuals to choose their preferred interaction level, whether it be solitary or communal. This nuanced approach distinguishes The Outdoor Window Seat from standard public seating solutions, emphasizing the importance of environment in architectural design for social engagement.

For a more detailed understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. By delving into the architectural ideas presented, one can appreciate how The Outdoor Window Seat enriches the public reading experience through thoughtful design and materiality.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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