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Bioreactor Facade and Flood Resilience in Compact Micro Housing

Authors:
Darien Too, Qin Hong Tang, Bruce Yee, Dennis Ng
Bioreactor Facade and Flood Resilience in Compact Micro Housing

Project in-detail

Integrating a bioreactor facade and buoyancy systems, this micro housing solution optimizes sustainable living in urban environments while addressing the challenges of climate resilience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a bioreactor façade utilizing algae for renewable energy generation.
02
Features an indoor farming unit, integrating food production directly into living spaces.
03
Utilizes a buoyancy flotation device to ensure safety from rising water levels.
04
Constructed with lightweight aluminum roof panels for enhanced efficiency and recyclability.
05
Employs a compact footprint to maximize urban living while promoting environmental sustainability.
The architectural project "The Last Home" addresses the pressing challenges posed by climate change, specifically in the context of urban living within low-lying island city-states like Singapore. This project exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to architecture, emphasizing sustainability and resilience in response to the realities of rising sea levels and environmental degradation. "The Last Home" represents not only a residential solution but also a broader societal vision that intertwines personal living spaces with ecological responsibility.

At its core, the project functions as a micro housing prototype that reimagines how people can inhabit urban environments under the threat of climate instability. It integrates living, working, and food production into a single cohesive design, fostering a sense of community while promoting self-sufficiency. The architectural design illustrates an innovative use of space, enabling residents to engage directly with their environment. Each element is carefully crafted to enhance both the livability of the space and the ecological footprint of the structure.

One of the standout features of "The Last Home" is its emphasis on materiality and resource efficiency. The structure utilizes a diverse palette of sustainable materials, including aluminum roof panels, glass glazing, wood finishes, and a bioreactor façade. These materials are selected not only for their aesthetic qualities but also for their functional attributes, such as durability and recyclability. The bioreactor façade, which incorporates algae as a natural energy source, is of particular interest. This innovative approach allows the building to generate renewable energy while simultaneously improving air quality, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of how architecture can contribute positively to urban ecosystems.

The architectural layout of "The Last Home" reflects a keen awareness of space utilization. Within a compact footprint, the design accommodates living areas, kitchen spaces, and a dedicated indoor farming unit. This incorporation of indoor agriculture is essential for promoting food security and encouraging a lifestyle that is more in tune with natural processes. The proximity of food production to living spaces not only enhances convenience for residents but also fosters a deeper connection to the sources of their sustenance.

In terms of unique design approaches, "The Last Home" stands out for its integration of advanced technology with traditional building principles. The buoyancy flotation device incorporated into the design serves as a proactive response to potential flooding, ensuring the structure can remain viable in the face of extreme weather events. This design strategy reflects a pragmatic understanding of the site’s vulnerabilities and represents an architectural response that respects both the natural environment and the needs of its inhabitants.

Furthermore, the project creates an educational dimension by allowing occupants to engage with the living systems within their home. This hands-on experience serves to cultivate a greater awareness of environmental issues and encourages sustainable practices among residents. The design of "The Last Home" thus transcends mere functionality; it becomes a medium through which communal and environmental consciousness is fostered.

As an architectural project, "The Last Home" challenges conventional notions of urban dwellings and proposes alternative solutions that are not only adaptable but also beneficial for their surrounding environments. By rethinking living spaces in the context of climate resiliency and communal integration, the design showcases how modern architecture can influence societal lifestyles while addressing global challenges.

To truly appreciate the intricacies and intentions behind "The Last Home," readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation of the project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas. These elements provide a more comprehensive understanding of the design's vision and its potential impact on future architectural practices. Engaging with the intricacies of this project offers valuable insights into how architectural innovation can play a critical role in shaping resilient communities amidst changing environmental conditions.
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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
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