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Aquaponics-Inspired Habitat With Elevated Wooden Structure and Rainwater Harvesting Systems

Authors:
Gabriel Ferreira Espindula, João Pedro Heber Guimarães Arruda , Bernardo Vieira Ribeiro De Carvalho
Aquaponics-Inspired Habitat With Elevated Wooden Structure and Rainwater Harvesting Systems

Project in-detail

Constructed using elevated wooden structures and integrated aquaponics systems, the habitat addresses sustainable living in flood-prone regions while facilitating community agriculture and resilience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes aquaponics systems to integrate fish farming with plant cultivation.
02
Features elevated wooden structures to enhance flood resilience.
03
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.
04
Employs charred wooden shingles for natural weather resistance and aesthetics.
05
Design promotes communal living through shared spaces and resources.
The IARA project represents a forward-thinking approach to architecture within the Amazon region, focusing on sustainability and community empowerment. It combines residential units with agricultural spaces, emphasizing collaboration among the inhabitants while utilizing the natural resources available in their environment. The design integrates traditional building practices with modern ecological strategies, aiming to create habitats that resist the detrimental effects of climate change and promote self-sufficiency.

Sustainable Solutions and Innovative Systems

One of the distinguishing features of the IARA project is its emphasis on climate resilience, achieved through thoughtful design and material use. The architecture integrates various sustainable systems, such as rainwater harvesting, which captures and filters precipitation for domestic and agricultural use. The dry toilet fixtures utilize a composting system, efficiently managing waste while producing organic fertilizer. Furthermore, the incorporation of aquaponics systems showcases the project's commitment to sustainable food production by merging fish farming with plant cultivation.

The use of naturally sourced materials plays an essential role in reducing the project's ecological footprint. Kingspan roof panels provide thermal insulation, while translucent polycarbonate enables natural lighting within the space while controlling heat gain. The wood facade complements the surrounding ecology, offering insulation properties while maintaining aesthetic harmony with the environment.

Community-Centric Design Approach

The layout of IARA prioritizes community interaction through an adaptable modular design. Individual living units are elevated on stilts, addressing potential flooding while allowing for open and accessible communal spaces. Shared resources are organized around a central communal boat dock, enhancing connectivity among residents. The project encourages the use of multifunctional spaces, where furniture can be rearranged or transformed to serve various purposes, promoting both comfort and utility.

Cultural integration is another crucial aspect, as the design incorporates elements significant to the local population. This includes traditional features, such as hammocks, which are seamlessly woven into living spaces. Overall, the project embodies a philosophy of adaptability and cultural respect, merging modern architectural ideas with long-established local practices.

For a more detailed exploration of the IARA project, including architectural plans and sections, please review the full project presentation. Engaging with the specific architectural designs and innovative ideas showcased will provide deeper insights into this thoughtful and purposeful project.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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