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Buoyant Flood-Resistant Design Featuring Acacia Wood and Reflective Cladding for Enhanced Sustainability

Authors:
Jordan Lutren, Laura Ross
Buoyant Flood-Resistant Design Featuring Acacia Wood and Reflective Cladding for Enhanced Sustainability

Project in-detail

Elevated above potential floodwaters, a buoyant structure crafted from Acacia wood and shielded by reflective cladding provides resilient housing solutions in a flood-prone region.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated buoyant structure allows for natural water flow during flooding events.
02
Constructed with sustainably sourced Acacia wood for durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Reflective metal cladding enhances energy efficiency and minimizes heat absorption.
04
Modular design facilitates flexible assembly and adaptation to site conditions.
05
Incorporates solar panels to support renewable energy usage.
The Crest House is an architectural project designed to address the challenges associated with flooding in low-lying areas. Situated in a floodplain region bordering Nebraska and Iowa, the design exemplifies a strategic response to climate change and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. The project emphasizes resilience through innovative architectural solutions that promote both safety and sustainability for its inhabitants.

Adaptive Elevation and Resilience Strategies

One of the most notable aspects of the Crest House is its elevation strategy. The design incorporates a buoyant structural system that raises the living space above potential floodwaters. As a result, the house adapts to rising water levels without compromising the safety of the occupants. This elevation not only protects the house during flooding events but also offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape.

The architectural design integrates local materials, notably Acacia wood and sustainably sourced plywood, promoting a low environmental impact. The use of reflective metal cladding enhances thermal performance while creating a modern aesthetic. Additionally, high-performance insulation materials and large glass panels facilitate energy efficiency while maximizing natural light within the dwelling.

Sustainable Features and Modular Design

Crest House places significant emphasis on sustainability through the incorporation of renewable energy sources. The design includes solar panels, allowing the house to generate its own electricity and reduce reliance on non-renewable power grids. A modular design approach enables flexible construction, facilitating easy assembly and disassembly as needed.

Interior spaces are carefully organized for functionality, with a layout that includes essential areas such as the kitchen, living room, and private bedrooms. This configuration optimizes the use of space while ensuring a cohesive flow throughout the home. The double-height living area creates an open ambiance, providing a sense of spaciousness while connecting occupants to their environment.

For readers interested in understanding the technical details and comprehensive vision of the Crest House, further exploration of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs is encouraged. An in-depth review of the architectural ideas behind the project will provide a more detailed understanding of how this design meets both aesthetic and functional requirements in a flood-prone region.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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