Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Bamboo Structures Embracing Nature with Flexible Community Spaces

Author:
Macedo De Araujo
Bamboo Structures Embracing Nature with Flexible Community Spaces

Project in-detail

Bamboo's structural integrity and natural fibers converge to create flexible spaces that enhance community interaction and function seamlessly within a forested landscape by the river.
5 key facts about this project
01
Uses locally sourced bamboo as a primary structural material for its strength and sustainability.
02
Incorporates natural fibers for insulation and finishing, minimizing environmental impact.
03
Features a modular construction approach, allowing flexible adaptation to future community needs.
04
Integrates biophilic design principles to enhance natural light and ventilation throughout the spaces.
05
Emphasizes community engagement with versatile gathering areas promoting cultural exchange.

### Overview

JAPIIIM is situated within a forested landscape along a river in Brazil, intended to foster a deep connection with the surrounding ecosystem. The project is designed to reflect ecological sensitivity and sustainability, establishing structures that resonate with both the local environment and cultural heritage. The architecture engages contemporary practices while honoring traditional methods, facilitating a dialogue that elevates the significance of the rainforest context.

### Structural Strategy

The design features biomorphic forms reminiscent of natural entities, such as seed pods and tree canopies, which optimize structural efficiency and enhance natural ventilation and light within the spaces. Comprised of three distinct units varying in height and size, the layout introduces functional diversity and interconnected areas, accommodating different uses and activities.

### Material Selection

Sustainable and locally sourced materials are integral to the project, contributing to its ecological narrative. Key materials include bamboo for its rapid growth and structural properties, wood from sustainably managed forests for warmth and aesthetic appeal, natural fibers for insulation and finishing, and textiles for shading and protection. This careful selection enriches the tactile quality of the structures while reinforcing their relationship with the environment.

### Community Interaction

The design prioritizes communal spaces that facilitate social engagement, learning, and cultural exchange. Flexible areas allow for diverse programming, adapting to the evolving needs of the community. This emphasis on public life enhances the collective experience and fosters connections among users.

### Ecological Considerations

Incorporating biophilic design principles, the architecture integrates natural light, ventilation, and local vegetation, which is essential for maintaining comfort in the tropical climate. Notable natural ventilation strategies contribute to the building's energy efficiency and overall environmental performance.

### Construction Methodology

The proposed construction methodology employs a modular system of prefabricated elements, allowing for efficient on-site assembly. This approach minimizes waste and expedites the construction timeline, ultimately reducing the environmental impact. The adaptable design also accommodates potential future modifications, aligning with the community's long-term growth and development.

### Aesthetic Context

The visual integration of JAPIIIM into the landscape is characterized by organic shapes that echo the natural terrain, promoting a sense of tranquility. The strategic positioning of the buildings along the water enhances their reflection in the environment, creating a cohesive visual narrative that aligns with the site's inherent beauty.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy