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Buoyant Structure Crafted from Reclaimed Wood and Sustainable Composite Decking in a Water-Dependent Landscape

Author:
Hoa Vu
Buoyant Structure Crafted from Reclaimed Wood and Sustainable Composite Decking in a Water-Dependent Landscape

Project in-detail

Elevated above the Mekong Delta's waters, the structure utilizes reclaimed wood and sustainable materials to create a buoyant living space that harmonizes with its aquatic environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design allows for direct interaction with surrounding water.
02
Incorporates reclaimed wood and sustainable composite materials throughout.
03
Features adjustable louvered roof panels for natural ventilation and light control.
04
Utilizes rainwater harvesting systems to manage water resources sustainably.
05
Flexible open-plan layout adapts to various living and working activities.

### Overview
The Dip-Net House is located in the Mekong Delta region, an area characterized by its rich ecological landscape and vibrant water culture. This architectural design seeks to enhance the connection between residents and their environment, drawing from the historical practices of local communities that have relied on aquatic resources. By integrating elements that reflect traditional fishing techniques, the house serves both as a functional residence and a recognition of the region’s cultural heritage.

### Architectural Strategy and Materiality
The design incorporates a floating structure that blends with the surrounding marshland, using a combination of sustainable materials to promote durability and aesthetic appeal. Key components include a steel frame for structural integrity, reclaimed wood flooring to minimize resource waste, and composite decking made from recycled materials. Additionally, mosaic tile and recycled PET fabric are utilized to reinforce the commitment to sustainability. The inclusion of louvered roof panels enhances natural ventilation and daylighting, while solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system enable energy efficiency and responsible water management.

### Spatial Configuration and Functionality
The spatial arrangement emphasizes an open-plan layout that facilitates adaptability and fluid movement between areas. This design allows living spaces to transform based on daily activities, maximizing the use of a compact 25m² footprint. Bi-fold glass doors blur the boundary between interior and exterior, fostering continuous interaction with the natural surroundings. Smart storage solutions are integrated discreetly throughout the house to optimize space and maintain an uncluttered environment, ensuring that functionality is balanced with a serene aesthetic.

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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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