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Bamboo Housing Integrated with Solar Energy and Rainwater Harvesting Systems

Authors:
Juan martin Arias cardona, Juanita Echeverri correa, Daniel Marin Parra
Bamboo Housing Integrated with Solar Energy and Rainwater Harvesting Systems

Project in-detail

Utilizing Guadua bamboo alongside innovative rainwater harvesting and solar energy systems, this housing initiative redefines urban living in Colombia by providing adaptable, eco-friendly homes for growing communities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates Guadua bamboo, a locally sourced material known for its strength and sustainability.
02
Features a central service core that manages water collection and energy storage, promoting off-grid living.
03
Includes a generative design tool, allowing residents to customize their living spaces based on personal needs.
04
Utilizes rainwater harvesting systems in the roofing to enhance sustainability and resource management.
05
Employs a modular construction approach for scalability, accommodating various family sizes and preferences.
The bamboo housing project presents a thoughtful exploration of contemporary architectural design in response to the pressing housing needs in urban Colombia. This project stands as a testament to the principles of sustainability and community-driven design, focusing on providing accessible living solutions while embracing local materials and building traditions. Central to the project is the use of Guadua bamboo, a versatile and sustainable material indigenous to the region, which distinctly underscores the project’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

The primary function of this housing initiative is to develop affordable and adaptable living spaces that meet the demands of rapidly growing urban populations. By employing a modular approach, the design allows for flexibility in unit configuration, accommodating various family sizes and needs. Each housing unit is engineered to be cost-effective, aiming for economic feasibility that aligns with the financial realities of low-income families in urban settings. The architectural concept incorporates a central service core that efficiently manages essential utilities such as water collection and energy storage, facilitating a degree of autonomy from municipal services.

A standout feature of the project is its open 'name room,' designed as a versatile space that fosters social interaction while still allowing for personal privacy. This feature reflects a deep understanding of community dynamics and the importance of shared spaces in enhancing social cohesion. Additionally, the incorporation of green cores and terraces promotes ecological awareness and invites residents to engage with nature. These areas enable the cultivation of plants and vegetables, contributing to food security and environmental sustainability in an urban context.

In terms of architectural details, the use of glue-laminated bamboo for structural components ensures durability while maintaining the aesthetic qualities of the natural material. Steel plates and dowel connections are engineered to provide necessary structural integrity, allowing the design to withstand various environmental challenges. The integration of glass facade panels serves to enhance natural light within the living spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere that minimizes reliance on artificial lighting. The roofing system, constructed with multicolor standing seam panels, not only adds visual variation but also ensures weather resistance—a crucial factor given Colombia's diverse climate.

What truly differentiates this architectural project is its unique design approach that prioritizes community engagement and environmental sustainability. The generative design software included in the project equips users with the means to personalize their living spaces, allowing families to adapt their homes as needed. This emphasis on user involvement in design underscores the project's goal of creating spaces that genuinely reflect the lives and needs of their inhabitants.

The bamboo housing project stands as a forward-thinking architectural solution that effectively addresses urban housing challenges, balancing ecological considerations with the necessity of community integration. By harnessing local resources and focusing on adaptable living solutions, the project reinforces the importance of designing with a sense of place and purpose. It invites further exploration into its architectural plans, sections, and designs for those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of its innovative ideas and practical applications. The carefully considered approach to design in this project reflects the ongoing evolution of architecture in urban environments, making it a relevant case study for future housing initiatives focused on sustainability and community well-being.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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