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Amphibious Shelter Featuring Polycarbonate Panels and Timber Framing for Flood Resilience

Author:
Huy Bui
Amphibious Shelter Featuring Polycarbonate Panels and Timber Framing for Flood Resilience

Project in-detail

With its amphibious design and use of polycarbonate panels alongside timber framing, this microhome provides a resilient living solution that adapts to flood conditions while prioritizing sustainability and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Amphibious structure allows it to float during floods, ensuring occupant safety.
02
Constructed with locally sourced materials to enhance community resilience.
03
Features a modular design that enables easy expansion based on family needs.
04
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.
05
Utilizes polycarbonate panels for natural light while maintaining flood protection.
The Lifesaver Microhome is an architectural project designed specifically for the flood-prone areas of Quang Binh Province, Vietnam. This microhome addresses the urgent need for resilient housing solutions that can withstand severe weather conditions, particularly during the monsoon season, making it a relevant response to climate-related challenges faced by local communities. The core function of the Lifesaver Microhome is to provide safe, adaptable living spaces that transform based on environmental conditions, showcasing an innovative approach to shelter design.

Amphibious Adaptability and Functionality

One of the defining characteristics of the Lifesaver Microhome is its amphibious design. It can effectively serve as both a standard residential unit and a buoyant shelter when floodwaters rise. The layout includes two functional areas: a non-amphibious section, which provides essential living spaces such as a kitchen and a communal area, and an amphibious section, which remains operational during flooding. This flexibility allows residents to maintain their daily activities with minimal interruption, highlighting the project's focus on practicality and user-oriented design.

The architectural design employs local materials to enhance sustainability and reduce construction costs. Key materials include timber for structural framing, galvanized steel for roofing and cladding, and polycarbonate panels for windows. These materials not only ensure durability and water resistance but also facilitate natural light infiltration. Furthermore, the integration of solar panels and rainwater catchment systems demonstrates a commitment to renewable energy and efficient resource management, reinforcing the project's resilience against climate conditions.

Sustainable Solutions and Community Engagement

The Lifesaver Microhome emphasizes eco-friendly practices and community involvement in its design and construction. By sourcing materials locally, the project supports the local economy while minimizing transportation-related environmental impacts. The structure is designed based on a modular system, allowing for easy modifications and expansions in response to the changing needs of families over time.

This approach fosters a sense of ownership and engagement among residents, encouraging them to participate in the building process and the sustainable practices introduced within the community. The design also incorporates hydrophilic features to manage water effectively, ensuring that essential systems remain functional even in extreme conditions.

Explore the Lifesaver Microhome further to discover architectural plans, sections, and designs that detail its innovative ideas and implementation strategies. Gaining insights into this project will provide a deeper understanding of how thoughtful architectural solutions can address real-world challenges in vulnerable regions.
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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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