Modular Grain Library for Shared Gardens

Green Innovation: The 3D "Grainothèque" to Revolutionize Shared Gardens

As part of the ongoing evolution of ecological awareness and community solidarity, a newcomer is making its appearance in shared gardens: the 3D-printed Grainothèque. This ingenious creation not only captivates the eye with its mosaic of vivid colors, but carries with it the spirit of sharing and sustainability that animates collaborative green spaces.

Designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, the Grainothèque is made from recycled plastics, underlining a commitment to the circular economy. Each compartment, declined in a different color, is designed to accommodate a variety of seeds - from forgotten vegetables to native flowers, allowing both amateur and experienced gardeners to share their seeds and knowledge.

The advantage of 3D printing in this project lies in its ability to fully customize the object to the specific needs of the community. Dimensions, number of compartments, colors, everything can be adjusted. What's more, it encourages local initiatives, as the grain libraries can be produced locally, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transport.

Each compartment is topped by a clear label, indicating the nature of the seeds it contains. Cross-barriers are not just a design choice; they facilitate access and prevent mixing of seeds, while reinforcing the structure.

The choice of bright colors is not just aesthetic; it has a didactic function. It can be used to code plant types or planting periods, for example, greens for leaves, reds for roots, or blues for plants requiring winter sowing.

The Grainothèque is more than just a seed distributor; it's a meeting point, a center for exchange, a link between generations and cultures. It represents a small ecosystem of biodiversity, a pillar of urban permaculture, and a step towards community food autonomy.

With the growing adoption of urban agriculture and free seed exchange, the 3D-printed Grainothèque is a model that could flourish in hundreds of shared gardens around the world, making it not only a practical innovation but also a symbol of positive change in our societies.

3D printer used: Creality Ender 6

Nozzle: 0.4 mm

Project components :

Boxes: 16 units

Sticks of Letters : 26 units

Joints: 9 units (for attaching elements)

Spacers : Quantity to be determined

Title Plate: Designed for structural assembly and consolidation

Print characteristics:

Modular design, enabling easy, part-by-part printing.

Elements are designed for easy printing, without the need for supports or complex post-processing.

The title plate attaches to the boxes to reinforce the whole and ensure structural stability.

This project aims to create a modular grain library, offering an organized and aesthetically pleasing space for storing and exchanging seeds in a shared garden.