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Coastal Microhome with Glubam Structure and Integrated Outdoor Living

Author:
Ed Green
Coastal Microhome with Glubam Structure and Integrated Outdoor Living
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Constructed from GluBam, the microhome offers a flexible living space that integrates an outdoor shower and balcony for an enhanced connection to the coastal environment, designed specifically for two wakeboard instructors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely with GluBam, enhancing sustainability.
02
Includes an integrated outdoor shower for convenience after water sports.
03
Features a foldable table to maximize dining space indoors and outdoors.
04
Incorporates a wakeboard hanger tailored for active users.
05
Offers a balcony designed for scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

The Bamboo Cube microhome emphasizes sustainability and flexibility in living spaces. Located beside the Hong Kong Sailing Training Association, it serves as a residence for two young wakeboard instructors, reflecting a lifestyle that values both activity and connection to nature. The design aims to create a compact living area that enhances the experience of both indoor and outdoor environments.

Design Concept and Context

The vision for the Bamboo Cube centers around an efficient, modern structure that fits into its natural surroundings. The design considers how users interact with their space, balancing comfort and functionality. By incorporating elements of the landscape into the living experience, the design fosters a strong relationship between the inhabitants and their environment.

Material Selection

GluBam is a key feature of the microhome. This material is noted for being affordable, easy to assemble, and environmentally friendly. With low energy consumption and reduced carbon emissions, GluBam represents a responsible choice for construction. Its strength provides structural support, ensuring the home remains durable while promoting sustainability.

Functional Elements

The design includes several practical features that cater to the needs of its users. An outdoor shower allows for rinsing off after water activities, making it convenient for the instructors. A foldable table enhances dining options, accommodating both indoor and outdoor meals. Additionally, a wakeboard hanger highlights the active lifestyle of the occupants. Inside, the layout consists of a living area, kitchen, toilet/shower, and a bedroom that can also function as a study, which supports varied uses of space.

Integrated Nature

The upper-level balcony is an important design element that connects the interior space to the outdoors. It offers a view of the surrounding area and encourages a closer relationship with nature. This outdoor feature enhances the living experience, allowing the instructors to appreciate their environment. The overall design promotes a lifestyle that embraces both relaxation and activity in a sustainable way.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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