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Buoyant Habitat Constructed With Recycled Metal and Cork Cladding

Author:
Fábio Pereira Frazão
Buoyant Habitat Constructed With Recycled Metal and Cork Cladding

Project in-detail

Floating above water and constructed from recycled metal and cork, this compact habitat offers a sustainable living solution that adapts to various environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from recycled materials, including metal and cork.
02
Features a buoyancy system for adaptability in aquatic environments.
03
Utilizes an open-plan layout for flexible space usage.
04
Incorporates sustainable wood for interior finishes and thermal efficiency.
05
Designed for easy mobility, facilitating transport across various terrains.

## Overview

The GLOTENT project introduces a new perspective on shelter, with a focus on flexibility, sustainability, and adaptability. It is designed to function effectively across various environments, from urban areas to natural settings. The aim is to create living spaces that not only provide functionality but also resonate with their surroundings, enhancing user interactions with nature.

### Materiality and Structural Composition

The GLOTENT structure utilizes a range of sustainable materials that reinforce its environmental goals. The framework is constructed from recycled metals, reducing waste while ensuring structural strength. The exterior is clad in cork, chosen for its renewable properties and ability to provide both thermal insulation and acoustic enhancement. Internally, sustainably sourced wood adds aesthetic warmth and is integral to the structure's stability. Additionally, an advanced buoyancy system enables the GLOTENT to remain operational on aquatic surfaces, leveraging lightweight materials for stability and safety.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

Designed as a compact, multi-functional living space, the GLOTENT features an open-plan layout that allows for versatile use of interior areas. Essential amenities support both relaxation and productivity. The incorporation of a lofted sleeping area optimizes vertical space, contributing to an airy environment. The structure's adaptable design supports diverse lifestyles, accommodating urban inhabitants, adventurers, and those seeking closer ties to the natural world. Large windows and an open configuration promote a seamless integration of natural light and views, enhancing the overall user experience.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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