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Bamboo Construction with Geo-Green Crete for Flexible Urban Living

Authors:
Sofía Daniela Ibarra Castro, Nilda Lizeth Ventura Gómez, Lilián Lisset Badillo Guzmán
Bamboo Construction with Geo-Green Crete for Flexible Urban Living
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Constructed using bamboo and Geo-Green crete, the design offers a modular approach to urban living that promotes flexibility and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with bamboo rods treated with Borax for enhanced durability.
02
Utilizes Geo-Green crete, eliminating Portland-based cement for sustainability.
03
Modular design allows for flexible adaptations to resident needs.
04
Incorporates a bench-like staircase that fosters social interaction.
05
Features integrated green spaces for ecological benefits and aesthetic appeal.

The "Living Stairs" project is located in an urban area of Melbourne, designed to fulfill the needs of modern residents. It focuses on modular housing that offers flexibility and personalization. Each living space can be adjusted based on the preferences of its occupants. The design resembles the shape of stairs, promoting a growth pattern that extends both in width and height. It brings together shared and private spaces to create a cohesive living environment.

Material Selection

Bamboo is used prominently in the walls of the first floor. The bamboo rods measure 14-16 cm in diameter and are treated with 1.5% Borax solution for added strength. This material choice is significant because it provides durability while supporting sustainable building practices. Bamboo is lightweight and renews quickly, making it a responsible choice for construction.



On the upper levels, Geo-Green crete blocks are used. These blocks do not contain Portland-based cement and are made from post-industrial waste along with aluminosilicate materials. This approach reduces the environmental impact of the building and ensures that it is structurally sound. Utilizing Eco-Green crete highlights a forward-thinking method in environmentally friendly architecture.



Modular Configurations

Module 1 features a compact design that serves multiple purposes within a space of 37 m². It includes a kitchen, a living room, a bedroom, and a bathroom, all laid out to maximize utility. A notable aspect of this module is the staircase designed to look like benches. This feature encourages social interaction and connects the module to the street, while also incorporating greenery that enhances the overall appeal.



Module 2 builds on the concept with a two-story living area that offers flexible arrangements. Residents can configure it for social spaces on the first floor and private areas above or choose the opposite layout. This versatility caters to different lifestyles, allowing a community feel while still providing personal space.



The overall design invites engagement between residents and their environment. The stair-like shape encourages movement and connection, supported by integrated green spaces that enrich the living experience. Each element contributes to an urban setting that balances community and privacy effectively.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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