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Charred Wooden Shingles and Buoyant Foundations in Sustainable Waterfront Living

Authors:
Luigi Pezzella, Cherubino Gambardella, Concetta Tavoletta
Charred Wooden Shingles and Buoyant Foundations in Sustainable Waterfront Living

Project in-detail

With buoyant foundations and charred wooden shingles, this sustainable dwelling blends seamlessly with its waterfront setting, offering a modern concept of communal living in harmony with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances fire resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Floating foundations allow for dynamic response to changing water levels, ensuring stability and minimal environmental impact.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to quick assembly and energy efficiency in construction.
04
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while allowing for efficient rainwater collection.
05
Community-oriented layout promotes social interaction through shared outdoor spaces and natural landscapes.
The architectural project presents a thoughtfully designed series of floating houses that serve as a model for sustainable living in harmony with nature. Established in a location where water bodies and natural landscapes coincide, this project represents the integration of innovative design with ecological sensitivity. The floating houses embody a commitment to environmental stewardship, community living, and functional aesthetics, reflecting a modern interpretation of rural housing that aligns with contemporary sustainability principles.

Functionally, each floating house is conceived to offer residents a unique blend of private living space and access to communal resources. The layout is organized around water features, emphasizing the relationship between the homes and their aquatic surroundings. This arrangement fosters social interactions while allowing each dwelling to maintain a sense of individuality and privacy. The floating nature of the houses allows them to adapt to varying water levels, ensuring stability and reducing the impact on the local ecosystem. This dynamic response to changing environmental conditions highlights a forward-thinking approach to architecture, where resilience is integrated into the design from the outset.

A key aspect of this project is its careful consideration of materials. The use of wood as the primary construction element accentuates local craftsmanship while promoting sustainability. Wood not only provides structural support but also establishes a warm and inviting atmosphere both inside and outside the homes. Large expanses of glass are incorporated throughout, enhancing natural light and creating a seamless connection between interior spaces and the natural environment. These materials are complemented by the use of concrete in foundational elements, ensuring durability and support for the floating platforms. The project champions recyclable materials, reflecting a dedication to minimizing its ecological footprint.

The architectural design features unique rooflines characterized by asymmetry and triangular profiles. This architectural choice contributes to both functionality—by facilitating rainwater collection—and aesthetic diversity across the housing complex. Interior spaces prioritize a modern open-plan layout, allowing residents to customize their living arrangements while promoting fluidity and space efficiency. The design focuses on incorporating natural finishes and textures, further enhancing the residents' experience through a calming ambiance.

One of the standout elements of this architectural endeavor is its emphasis on community. Rather than merely building individual homes, the project promotes social interaction through shared spaces and communal areas, reinforcing the importance of community engagement within residential architecture. The incorporation of educational elements about sustainable practices encourages residents to connect with their surroundings and adopt a lifestyle that aligns with environmental values.

This floating housing project signals a departure from traditional approaches to home design, integrating ecological awareness with modern living. By harnessing local resources and drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape, the project sets a precedent for future developments in sensitive environments. Viewers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that reveal the thoughtful considerations underpinning this project. Delving deeper into the architectural ideas behind the floating houses will provide valuable insights into how thoughtful design can coexist with natural ecosystems, making it a relevant example in today’s architectural discourse.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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