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Aquatic Habitat Created with Sustainable Concrete and Glass in a Coastal Retreat

Aquatic Habitat Created with Sustainable Concrete and Glass in a Coastal Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with durable concrete and expansive glass panels, the design supports marine life through its coral habitat features while serving as a sustainable retreat for eco-conscious visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with marine-grade concrete to withstand coastal conditions.
02
Incorporates coral habitat features designed to promote marine biodiversity.
03
Utilizes a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water supply.
04
Features large glass panels for unobstructed ocean views.
05
Employs an off-grid energy system relying solely on solar power.

## Overview

The Coral Reef Cabin is located in the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site characterized by its rich marine biodiversity. The project aims to establish a sustainable living model that addresses the ecological challenges posed by climate change while supporting local communities dependent on tourism.

### Architectural Intent

The design integrates habitation with the marine ecosystem while emphasizing sustainability and resilience. Key objectives include the promotion of off-grid living through renewable energy sources, the enhancement of local biodiversity by fostering coral growth, and the engagement of local communities through eco-tourism initiatives.

### Unique Features

The cabin operates autonomously with a comprehensive off-grid system that includes solar panels for electricity generation and a rainwater collection system for water supply. The structure is designed to blend with its environment through the use of materials that mimic natural reef formations, thereby encouraging fish recruitment and coral propagation.

Large glass panels facilitate natural light and expansive ocean views, reinforcing the connection between occupants and their surroundings. Additionally, the selection of eco-friendly materials, including concrete blockwork for structural integrity, stainless steel for durability, and high-performance glass panels for insulation, contributes to the building's sustainability.

### Design Outcomes

The design effectively reduces the carbon footprint through its integration of renewable energy and sustainable materials. It boosts local economies by attracting tourism and generating employment opportunities for community members. By modeling eco-tourism, the project encourages sustainable practices among visitors and residents, facilitating collaborative efforts in marine conservation.

Illustrative highlights such as exploded axonometric diagrams visualize the cabin's spatial organization and functional zoning, while renderings showcase airy, light-filled interior spaces. The construction methods, characterized by low-tech, sustainable techniques, are further detailed in building process diagrams, underscoring the project's commitment to environmental responsibility.

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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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