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Metal-Framed Grandstand and Steel Structure Create Flexible Community Reading Space

Authors:
Eduarda Gonçalves, João Victor Felisbino, Maria Helena Tomoscko
Metal-Framed Grandstand and Steel Structure Create Flexible Community Reading Space
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A large bookcase positioned at varying heights and a metal-framed grandstand enhance accessibility and interaction in a flexible community space designed for reading and exchange.
5 key facts about this project
01
Large bookcase designed for community exchange at various heights.
02
Metal-framed grandstand allows flexible seating arrangements.
03
Steel Frame construction minimizes waste and enhances recyclability.
04
Integrated thermal panels improve energy efficiency.
05
Accessible design accommodates users of all abilities.

"A Crack in Time" is designed to strengthen the connection between people and literature. Located in a community-oriented area, it serves as a reading space that encourages accessibility and engagement. The overall design integrates indoor and outdoor elements, creating a friendly environment for exploration and creativity.

Architectural Composition

The building uses a basic geometric shape, a parallelepiped stone. This form supports flexible configurations while keeping a clean and simple appearance. Openings are strategically created to allow light in and connect the inside with the outside, enhancing the overall atmosphere.

Functional Spaces

Inside, a multifunctional area accommodates different activities. A wooden table sits at the center, surrounded by solid wooden benches, offering comfortable seating options. Alongside this, a metal-framed grandstand provides easy access to bookshelves, inviting users to explore and interact with the literary offerings.

Community Features

On the exterior, a large bookcase is designed for book exchange. It is placed at various heights to be accessible to all, from children to adults. This design fosters community engagement and enriches the experience for visitors. Additionally, adjustable bicycle stands highlight the focus on accessibility for cyclists, making the site welcoming for everyone.

Sustainability and Structure

The building employs a Steel Frame system, chosen for its capacity to reduce waste during construction and its ability to be recycled. Thermal panels are integrated to improve energy efficiency and cut down on water use in the building process. This thoughtful design approach aims to create a space that is both functional and adaptable, fostering ongoing engagement with literature. The exterior interacts with the surrounding landscape, featuring clear lines and openings that draw the outside in, creating a welcoming and engaging space for the 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

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Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025
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