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Buoyant Residence Featuring Intricate Brickwork and Asymmetrical Roof Form Overlooking The Canal

Authors:
Kyungjae Kim, Useong Jeong
Buoyant Residence Featuring Intricate Brickwork and Asymmetrical Roof Form Overlooking The Canal

Project in-detail

The unique floating structure, characterized by its intricate brick facade and asymmetrical roof that emulates canal waves, offers a sustainable living solution for a couple deeply connected to both navigation and gardening.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating structure designed to mitigate flood risks while enhancing waterfront accessibility.
02
Intricate brick patterns that filter natural light, mimicking the effects of water reflections.
03
Asymmetrical roof design inspired by the waveforms of the canal, enhancing solar control.
04
Adaptive interior layout allows for flexible reconfiguration to meet evolving residential needs.
05
Integrates ecological principles by promoting local aquatic ecosystems through its construction.
The project "Yunseul" is an architectural design located on the Amsterdam Canal, specifically crafted as a residential floating house for a couple—a navigator and a gardener. It integrates contemporary living with Amsterdam's rich architectural heritage, utilizing brick as a primary material to establish a connection with the city's historic context. The design reflects a duality, balancing modern functionality with traditional aesthetics while addressing the unique environmental and spatial considerations of canal-side living.

Architecturally, "Yunseul" is a response to its aquatic environment. The floating structure mitigates flood risks while creating an engaging relationship with water. The primary material, brick, is not only a nod to Amsterdam's architectural legacy but also serves practical purposes, such as thermal mass and structural stability. The extensive use of glass facilitates natural light and optimizes views of the canal, allowing the internal and external environments to coexist harmoniously.

Unique Design Approaches
A distinctive feature of this project is its irregular roof form, designed to emulate the waves of the canal. This architectural approach effectively provides shade and encourages light infiltration, enhancing the interior experience. The façade incorporates intricate brick patterns, which control solar gain while allowing light to pass through in a manner evoking shimmering water. Such design elements enhance both aesthetic appeal and environmental performance.

The spatial organization within "Yunseul" is another highlight. The floor plan is designed for interconnected yet private spaces, promoting comfortable living while addressing the needs of its inhabitants. Adaptability is a key consideration; the interior layout allows for reconfiguration to accommodate changing requirements over time, ensuring the longevity and relevance of the design.

Integration with Environment
"Yunseul" maintains a careful integration with its surrounding environment. The floating nature of the residence promotes sustainability and touches upon ecological concepts by supporting local aquatic ecosystems. This project exemplifies a modern architectural response that respects and enhances its historical and natural context. The use of traditional materials alongside innovative design strategies offers a balance that is both functional and aesthetically viable.

For a comprehensive understanding of "Yunseul," it is encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that reveal the intricacies of this project. Engaging with these elements will provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas and methodologies that define this unique residential endeavor.
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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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