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Buoyant Foundations and Solar Efficiency in Compact Urban Living

Author:
Reema Abraham
Buoyant Foundations and Solar Efficiency in Compact Urban Living

Project in-detail

With its buoyant foundation designed for flood resilience and a solar roof for energy efficiency, this compact urban dwelling redefines sustainable living in Houston through modular flexibility and thoughtful integration of community spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Buoyant foundation allows the house to rise above floodwaters.
02
Integrated solar roof provides renewable energy for daily use.
03
Modular design enables easy adaptation to resident needs.
04
Overhead storage maximizes floor space efficiency.
05
Composting systems promote environmental sustainability.

FLEX HOUSE is a modular design located in Houston, Texas, created to respond to current urban housing needs. The idea focuses on a flexible layout made up of four connected modules, each with its own function. This approach aims to efficiently use space while emphasizing sustainability and adaptability for the diverse lifestyles of city residents.

Design Concept
The layout stems from a basic 2.5m x 2.5m cube, expanded into four individual boxes that each serve distinct purposes. This modular structure allows for easy adjustments based on the needs of the residents and the local environment. Each box is designed to be functional, ensuring that the overall space is effectively utilized for modern living requirements.

Sustainability Features
Sustainability is a key element woven into the design. A solar roof supports the energy needs of the house, helping to reduce reliance on external power sources. The project includes a composting toilet and a dehydrating system, which promote efficient waste management. Additionally, a rainwater collection and purification system provides a source of clean water and emphasizes the importance of being environmentally conscious.

Community Integration
FLEX COMMUNITY illustrates the design’s commitment to fostering connections among residents in an increasingly crowded urban landscape. The arrangement allows multiple flex houses to exist within a single steel structure, preserving natural surroundings and green space. This thoughtful layout minimizes disruption to the land while encouraging a sense of community in close quarters.

Unique Design Elements
Notable features include storage cabinets placed overhead to free up floor space. Mechanical systems within the house have 90-degree rotating capabilities, further maximizing utility. The living area is equipped with a wood-burning stove and a movable television unit, offering comfort alongside practical design. Compact solutions in the sleeping area and bathroom optimize functionality without sacrificing livability. The buoyant foundation enables the house to float during floods, providing a clever response to Houston’s challenging weather patterns.

The interior is designed with large openings and low-E glass windows, allowing ample natural light to fill the space. This enhances the sense of openness while maintaining energy efficiency throughout the house.

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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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