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Bamboo Structure with off-Grid Solar Power and Sustainable Water Collection

Authors:
Sara Gomez Perez, Lucrezia Lora Moretto
Bamboo Structure with off-Grid Solar Power and Sustainable Water Collection
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Constructed from bamboo and designed for off-grid living, the structure employs solar panels and a rainwater collection system to provide sustainable housing solutions for urban residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with bamboo for sustainability.
02
Operates completely off-grid with solar energy.
03
Features an integrated rainwater collection system.
04
Can function as a standalone unit or community hub.
05
Utilizes wood fiber insulation for enhanced thermal performance.

The Hive is located in urban areas where the cost of housing is too high for many young people. It aims to provide affordable living spaces without the heavy financial burden that often accompanies homeownership. The design focuses on sustainability, seeking to reduce environmental impact while maintaining practical functionality in a compact urban setting.

Sustainable Design

At the core of The Hive is its off-grid capability, which helps it operate independently. The building uses solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity, supplying power for daily use. Additionally, it incorporates a rainwater collection system that gathers and stores water. This approach not only supports a sustainable lifestyle but also increases the building's resilience in an urban environment.

Community Integration

Flexibility is a key feature of The Hive. It can function as a single unit or as part of a larger community. This adaptability makes it ideal for vacant lots in cities, where additional housing is often needed. By integrating with existing neighborhoods, The Hive helps foster a sense of community and maximizes land use in densely populated areas.

Material Utilization

Material choices play an important role in The Hive's sustainability goals. The project includes a mix of materials that reflect an emphasis on resource efficiency. The use of 2 cm bamboo and 2 cm wood fiber insulation highlights a commitment to renewable resources. Structural integrity is provided by 1 cm OSB panels, while thermal performance is enhanced with a 3 mm vapor barrier and 8 cm wood fiber insulation.

Every detail of The Hive contributes to its overall purpose, combining function with natural materials. The thoughtful design results in a space that is both practical and welcoming.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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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