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Modular Community Space Featuring Recycled Marine Plywood and Open Roof Design

Authors:
Sehr Bokhari, Aislinn Cunnigham
Modular Community Space Featuring Recycled Marine Plywood and Open Roof Design

Project in-detail

Built with recycled marine plywood and characterized by an open roof design, the community space enhances public engagement through its flexible modular layout, fostering a vibrant environment for reading and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with recycled marine plywood for sustainability.
02
Features an open roof design that connects users with the environment.
03
Modular units allow for versatile configurations and adaptable use.
04
Incorporates outdoor seating to promote community interaction.
05
Designed to accommodate all ages and abilities for inclusive access.

The project, “The Open Book,” is an architectural design that redefines public engagement with literature through its modular approach. This structure serves as a community space designated for reading, learning, and social interaction, promoting literacy and knowledge sharing in a versatile environment. The design embodies the concept of a book opening, emphasizing accessibility and inspiration.

The layout consists of four modular units that can be rearranged based on the users' needs, allowing for various configurations that respond to changing activities and interactions. This adaptability enhances the functionality of the space, enabling it to accommodate individual readers, group discussions, and community events.

Unique Configuration and Materiality
One of the defining features of “The Open Book” is its modular configuration. This design enables a flexible arrangement, meeting the diverse requirements of different groups and activities. The roof is open to the elements, offering an experience that connects users with their surroundings while providing protection from the elements when necessary. This design approach illustrates a commitment to both usability and environmental engagement.

Material selection plays a significant role in the project’s sustainability. Recycled marine grade plywood is employed for structural elements, promoting eco-friendliness while ensuring durability. The use of soy-based glue and metal sheet contributes to the building’s resilience, while glass elements enhance visibility and connectivity to the surrounding environment. This choice of materials aligns with contemporary architectural practices focused on sustainability and innovation.

User-Centered Design and Community Engagement
The project prioritizes user-centric design, incorporating spaces that are universally accessible. By ensuring inclusivity, “The Open Book” provides opportunities for community engagement across all demographics. The designated reading areas allow for quiet contemplation, while larger spaces can host book exchange events and educational initiatives. This dual functionality cultivates a culture of learning and social interaction among community members.

The design’s emphasis on interaction extends to outdoor features such as bicycle storage and seating areas, facilitating a connection with the local community. This approach encourages users to engage in various activities within the space, ensuring its relevance throughout the year.

For further insights, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas behind “The Open Book” will provide deeper understanding of its design philosophy and practical applications.

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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

Enter an open architecture
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