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Breathing Towers and Bamboo Veneers in a Sustainable Community Habitat

Author:
Sarah Jarbou
Breathing Towers and Bamboo Veneers in a Sustainable Community Habitat

Project in-detail

Bamboo veneers and passive cooling towers converge to create a sustainable habitat that enhances community living while prioritizing environmental responsibility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Bamboo veneers enhance both aesthetics and sustainability within the structure.
02
Passive cooling towers improve interior air quality and reduce energy consumption.
03
Interactive zones are strategically placed to encourage community engagement.
04
AAC panels provide thermal efficiency while minimizing the building's environmental footprint.
05
The design integrates flexible layouts to accommodate changing resident needs.
The Collective Mechanism project presents an architectural design that embodies a synthesis of community-oriented living and sustainable practices. Positioned in a context that emphasizes cultural heritage, this project aims to address the pressing issues of contemporary housing by integrating environmental efficiency, social interaction, and psychological well-being. It consists of multiple interconnected structures designed to promote a harmonious relationship between inhabitants and their environment, effectively creating a space that fosters community engagement while respecting traditional values.

The architectural strategy serves to enhance functionality, with a thoughtful layout that accommodates diverse activities. Key elements include shared spaces that facilitate social gatherings, private areas that ensure personal comfort, and provisions for adaptability based on changing needs.

Innovative Cooling and Environmental Sustainability
A distinct characteristic of The Collective Mechanism is its integrated cooling and environmental systems. The design incorporates breathing towers that provide passive cooling and improve air quality, contributing to the overall comfort of the occupants. Additionally, the project utilizes a district cooling strategy that minimizes energy consumption, ensuring sustainable living while maintaining user satisfaction. The architecture employs a variety of sustainable materials, including AAC panels and bamboo charcoal veneers, which further enhance the ecological footprint of the buildings.

Social Spaces and Community Interaction
The design prioritizes community engagement through the inclusion of designated interactive zones called "pockets of chance." These areas are strategically located to encourage spontaneous encounters among residents, fostering a sense of belonging and cohesion. Furthermore, the incorporation of communal gardens and flexible workspaces not only provides essential facilities but also supports social networks, reinforcing the interconnectedness of the community. This approach differentiates The Collective Mechanism from typical architectural projects by foregrounding human interactions and community resilience.

To explore additional details about the architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural ideas encapsulated in The Collective Mechanism, examine the project's presentation. This will provide further insights into the architectural design and its multifaceted approach to sustainable and community-oriented living.
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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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