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Translucent Polycarbonate Panels and Mobile Community Space Designed for Shared Literary Engagement

Authors:
Samrakshana Suresh, Rania Mohamed, Rachel George
Translucent Polycarbonate Panels and Mobile Community Space Designed for Shared Literary Engagement

Project in-detail

Comprising translucent polycarbonate panels and a flexible wooden framework, the pavilion serves as a mobile community space dedicated to promoting literacy through book exchange and artistic engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes translucent polycarbonate for natural light and insulation.
02
Features a flexible wooden framework that allows for easy relocation.
03
Incorporates a book vending machine to promote community literature exchange.
04
Includes interactive art canvases for user expression and engagement.
05
Designed for optimal function during Sharjah's mild climate months.
The Reading Stoa project is an architectural response to the need for community engagement in Sharjah, specifically designed to foster literacy and knowledge sharing. This pavilion, characterized by its mobility and adaptability, functions as a communal space for book exchange and artistic expression. The design integrates both aesthetic and functional elements, accommodating various activities while ensuring ease of use for the public.

The pavilion’s structure is distinguished by its flexible assembly and disassembly capabilities, allowing it to adapt to different weather conditions. During the milder months from November to March, it serves as an outdoor reading room, while it can seamlessly transition indoors when the climate becomes less favorable. This inherent mobility supports its role as a dynamic community resource.

Innovative Features of the Design

A key aspect of The Reading Stoa is its functionality as a "Book for a Book" vending machine, encouraging community members to exchange literature directly. This mechanism not only facilitates accessibility to books but also fosters a culture of sharing and discovery among users. Additionally, the pavilion features interactive artistic canvases, which allow visitors to express their insights, thus promoting dialogue on literature and culture.

The design employs a combination of materials that enhances both durability and aesthetic appeal. The predominant use of polycarbonate panels provides natural illumination while maintaining insulation, which illustrates a thoughtful approach to materiality. The wooden framework adds warmth and creates an inviting atmosphere, while the integration of canvas elements softens the structure’s visual impact. Steel components ensure the pavilion's structural integrity, responding to the demands of its fluid nature.

Community Engagement and Interaction

The asymmetrical design of The Reading Stoa encourages movement and facilitates a varied user experience. This layout is intentional, promoting a sense of exploration and discovery throughout the space. The flexible book shelves within the pavilion are reconfigurable, enabling diverse setups that accommodate different activities and gatherings.

The pavilion is not only a reading space, but it also embodies the principles of sustainability and community involvement. By promoting book sharing through its unique vending mechanism and providing an artistic outlet, The Reading Stoa exemplifies a modern approach to creating public spaces that enhance social interaction.

For a comprehensive understanding of this architectural design, including detailed architectural plans and sections, consider delving deeper into the project's presentation to explore its many facets and the thoughtful ideas embedded in its design.
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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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