Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

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

Bamboo Structures Featuring Rainwater Harvesting and Thermo-Insulated Modules for Flexible Urban Living

Authors:
Juan martin Arias cardona, Juanita Echeverri correa, Daniel Marin Parra
Bamboo Structures Featuring Rainwater Harvesting and Thermo-Insulated Modules for Flexible Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing Guadua bamboo and thermo-insulated modules, the design creates adaptable urban housing that emphasizes sustainability through integrated rainwater harvesting systems.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Guadua bamboo for its structural framework, promoting rapid growth and sustainability.
02
Features modular design allowing for easy expansion or reduction of living space based on family needs.
03
Incorporates integrated rainwater harvesting systems for enhanced resource management.
04
Employs thermo-insulated modules to improve energy efficiency in varying climates.
05
Includes open, flexible interior layouts that encourage community interaction while providing private nooks.
The bamboo housing project in Colombia addresses the pressing issues of affordable housing and sustainable urban development. It utilizes bamboo, primarily Guadua bamboo, as a core building material to create flexible modular units designed to respond to the specific needs of families in rapidly urbanizing contexts. The project aims to provide resilient and adaptable housing solutions that can be easily assembled and modified, improving living conditions while emphasizing an environmentally conscious approach.

Sustainability is a critical aspect of this project, with design choices reflecting a commitment to renewable resources and minimizing waste. The architectural layout integrates living spaces with essential services, allowing for a balance between communal and private areas. The project includes various functional modules such as the ‘Service Heart,’ which centralizes utilities and energy management, and adaptable interior spaces designated for varied uses by inhabitants.

Innovative Design Approaches

The modular design is one of the most distinctive features of the project. Each housing unit can be scaled according to the family’s size and needs, enabling customization based on specific community and cultural contexts. This adaptability is essential in addressing informal settlement challenges, allowing residents to expand or reduce their living space without significant disruption.

The incorporation of natural materials not only supports structural integrity but also enhances the aesthetic quality of the homes. The use of glue-laminated bamboo increases the durability of the building envelope, permitting larger spans and flexible layouts. By using sustainable materials, the design also contributes to reducing the environmental footprint of the construction process.

Integration of Green Technologies

The project includes green technologies, such as solar roofing systems and rainwater harvesting solutions, which promote self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on external resources. These features improve the quality of life for residents while being mindful of the surrounding environment. The thoughtful placement of windows and glass panels maximizes natural light, contributing to energy efficiency and enhancing the overall livability of the spaces.

In summary, this bamboo housing project exemplifies a modern approach to architecture that prioritizes both social and environmental considerations. Its use of modular design, adaptive living spaces, and sustainable materials distinguishes it from conventional housing projects. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project's details for a comprehensive understanding of its innovative approach to housing.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
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 17,249 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