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Reflective Glass Facade and Softwood Structure Create an Interactive Reading Space by the Lake

Authors:
Miriam Lohr, Diana Frank
Reflective Glass Facade and Softwood Structure Create an Interactive Reading Space by the Lake

Project in-detail

Suspended books and a cubic softwood structure blend seamlessly with a reflective glass façade to create a unique lakeside reading space that fosters community interaction and exploration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cubic form integrates seamlessly with the lakeside environment.
02
Partially mirrored glass reflects the surrounding landscape, enhancing visual dynamics.
03
Suspended bookshelves allow for flexible, interactive displays of various-sized books.
04
Reading cave provides a cozy, intimate nook within the open design.
05
Constructed using untreated regional softwood for sustainability and local relevance.

## Project Overview

Located at Happinger See in Rosenheim, Bavaria, Germany, "The Cube Verse" serves as a multifaceted reading space designed to enhance engagement with literature. The project aims to create an environment that encourages interaction between visitors and their surroundings while promoting a deeper connection to reading. Its architectural form, characterized by a cubic structure with an open side, facilitates a visual dialogue with nature, drawing the attention of passersby and inviting them into the experience.

## Spatial Configuration

### Architectural Structure

The design features a cubic form optimized for light capture and visual interaction with the lakeside setting. The façades incorporate partially mirrored and transparent surfaces, which reflect the landscape, enhancing the building's integration into its natural context. This dynamic exterior not only adapts to shifting light conditions but also brings elements of the environment into the interior space.

### Interior Organization

The interior layout is divided into several designated areas, each serving a unique purpose. Key components include a reading nook, referred to as the "Reading Cave," which offers comfort through soft furnishings, and creatively designed "Shelf Structures" that accommodate various types of reading material. Additionally, the "Book Jungle" employs flexible arrangements of steel cable loops, allowing easy access and interaction with diverse books. The entrance strategically channels visitors from the dock area into the imaginative setting, reinforcing a sense of exploration and discovery.

## Material Selection

The material choices for "The Cube Verse" are aligned with both functional and aesthetic objectives, emphasizing sustainability and regional context.

1. **Dock**: Composed of untreated regional softwood, the dock structure provides durability while being supported by steel pipes for stability.

2. **Core Framework**: Similarly, the main structure uses untreated regional softwood, fostering a harmonious relationship with the surrounding environment.

3. **Façade**: The exterior features a combination of mirrored and tinted glass, which enhances natural light within and creates a vibrant spatial experience, while warmer colors contribute to an inviting atmosphere.

4. **Bookshelves and Reading Areas**: Modular bookshelves made from layered panels serve a dual purpose, accommodating books and offering storage for reading accessories. The "Reading Cave" is styled in line with the bookshelves to ensure comfort and shelter.

5. **Flexible Storage Solutions**: Lightweight materials in the "Book Jungle" allow for innovative and adaptable storage, encouraging visitor interaction and exploration of literary works.

The overall design of "The Cube Verse" establishes a setting that promotes contemplation and community engagement, blending nature, architecture, and literature into a cohesive user experience.

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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
competition now

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