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Mirrored Facades and Playwood Interiors Creating Community Interaction in a Modern Reading Space

Authors:
Silvia Gomez junco ruiz, Martha marina Gonzalez perez
Mirrored Facades and Playwood Interiors Creating Community Interaction in a Modern Reading Space

Project in-detail

Combining playwood surfaces with reflective elements, the design fosters an inviting environment where community engagement and a love for reading flourish.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of playwood throughout the interior creates a warm, tactile environment that invites users to engage with the space.
02
Mirrored surfaces strategically placed enhance the perception of space and foster a sense of exploration.
03
The bent A-frame design not only adds visual interest but also optimizes natural light intake.
04
Modular book shelving encourages dynamic user interaction and promotes an informal discovery of literature.
05
Community-focused zones are integrated into the layout, supporting informal gatherings and collaborative learning activities.
The project, designed as the "Infinite Library," epitomizes modern architectural thought by reshaping the conventional library experience. This architectural endeavor seeks to reinvent the library not merely as a storage space for books but as an engaging, multifunctional environment that fosters community interaction and learning.

At its core, the Infinite Library represents a commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, encouraging a diverse range of users, from families and students to professionals, to engage with the space. The project's design is characterized by its openness and transparency, which invite light and create a sense of connection with the outside world. This approach is particularly significant in urban contexts where libraries can serve as crucial communal hubs, allowing them to transcend their traditional roles.

The function of the Infinite Library is multifaceted. It acts not only as a repository of knowledge but also as a vibrant social space where ideas can flourish through collaboration. The design emphasizes fluid circulation, enabling users to navigate seamlessly between various zones tailored for different activities—reading, collaboration, or solitary study. This attention to user experience is reinforced through innovative spatial arrangements that promote interaction among visitors while still offering privacy for those seeking a quiet place to concentrate.

Key elements of the project include the strategic use of materials and the thoughtful incorporation of natural light. Playwood, used extensively throughout, provides a warm, inviting atmosphere, enhancing the tactile experience of the space. Alongside this, the integration of mirrored surfaces creates an illusion of extensive space, further inviting users to explore the library’s offerings. These design choices are not merely aesthetic; they are rooted in the understanding that a library should be a place of discovery and contemplation.

The unique design approach of the Infinite Library lies in its conceptual underpinning—the idea of an 'infinite' exploration of knowledge and community engagement. The arrangement of bookshelves in playful, modular configurations encourages users to move through the space freely, instinctively engaging with the environment rather than adhering to a structured navigation. This enhances not only the functionality of the library but also its role as a cultural and social venue, fostering informal gatherings and dialogue among users.

Moreover, the library's architecture has been carefully considered to allow for flexibility in how the space can be used. By accommodating a variety of user profiles and activities, the design meets the shifting demands of community needs, making it adaptable to future changes in usage patterns. The deliberate incorporation of communal spaces, along with quiet areas for focused study, reflects a comprehensive understanding of contemporary lifestyle choices, allowing the library to serve as a valuable resource in a digital age.

In summary, the Infinite Library stands as a modern interpretation of library architecture, balancing functionality with an inviting and dynamic environment. This project aims to not only house books but also facilitate connections and conversations that advance communal knowledge. For a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for a richer perspective on its innovative features and design rationale.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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