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Buoyant Foundation with Slip Columns and Treated Lumber for Resilient Living

Authors:
Melissa Banda, Zerik Kendrick
Buoyant Foundation with Slip Columns and Treated Lumber for Resilient Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with a buoyant foundation and slip columns, this residence utilizes treated lumber and innovative energy systems to provide a sustainable living solution in flood-prone areas.
5 key facts about this project
01
Buoyant foundation allows for dynamic adaptation to rising water levels.
02
Slip columns enhance structural integrity while providing flexibility in design.
03
Utilizes treated lumber for durability and moisture resistance in aquatic environments.
04
Integrated hydroelectric systems generate renewable energy from local water flow.
05
Meditation area connects residents with nature through expansive views and natural light.

The Amphibious Home is a modern architectural project designed to address the challenges of living in flood-prone areas. This structure integrates innovative design principles with functional sustainability, allowing it to coexist with surrounding water bodies while providing a safe and adaptable living environment. By employing a buoyant foundation, the home adapts to fluctuations in water levels, offering residents continuous usability regardless of environmental conditions.

Design Philosophy and Unique Features

A key aspect of the Amphibious Home is its design philosophy, which centers on resilience and adaptability. The project utilizes a slip column system, enabling the structure to rise and fall with water levels similar to a floating vessel. This design minimizes potential damage during flooding and reflects a progressive approach to architecture in areas vulnerable to climate impacts.

The architectural layout includes dedicated zones for sleeping, living, working, and recreation. Each space integrates large windows to maximize natural light and provide expansive views. The inclusion of flexible partitions facilitates multifunctional use of spaces, enhancing the overall living experience. Additionally, the materials selected for construction, such as treated lumber, standing seam metal siding, and composite decking, are chosen for their durability and resistance to moisture.

Sustainable Systems Integration

The Amphibious Home is equipped with various sustainable systems aimed at reducing ecological impact and enhancing self-sufficiency. Hydro-electric power generation is achieved through a turbine, utilizing the water flow from the surrounding environment. Complementing this, a rainwater collection system and an integrated water treatment process ensure access to clean water. These systems not only lower the project's carbon footprint but also present a practical solution for daily living in unpredictable environments.

The design challenges traditional notions of habitat by seamlessly integrating architecture with the aquatic surroundings. It offers a sustainable model for future living solutions in areas vulnerable to flooding.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Amphibious Home, consider exploring the architectural plans and sections, which provide further insights into the design strategies and systems employed. Reviewing architectural designs and ideas encapsulated in this project will enhance appreciation of its functionality and innovative approach.

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

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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

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