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Coconut Structures Enhanced by Solar Cooling and Natural Fiber Elements for Sustainable Community Living

Author:
Kenton Knowles
Coconut Structures Enhanced by Solar Cooling and Natural Fiber Elements for Sustainable Community Living
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Utilizing coconut for structural elements alongside solar cooling systems and natural fiber materials, this community habitat fosters sustainable living while harmonizing with its tropical environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Coconut serves as a primary structural element, enhancing sustainability.
02
Solar cooling towers harness natural convection for climate control.
03
Natural fiber materials are woven into the design for eco-friendliness.
04
Flexible space arrangements adapt to communal and individual needs.
05
The layout incorporates functional gardens for food production and resource management.

Gloasis is an architectural design project conceived for a community of planetary hunter-gatherers, situated on a tropical island. This project emphasizes self-sustainability, ecological balance, and communal living, integrating modern technology with natural resources to create a unique habitat. The architecture is designed to harmonize with the landscape while addressing the practical needs of its inhabitants.

The project embodies principles of resilience and adaptability, promoting a lifestyle where technology supports and enhances traditional living practices. Each structural element is carefully planned, emphasizing efficient use of materials and energy resources. The layout fosters a sense of community, allowing residents to collaborate in agricultural and ecological ventures essential for their survival.

Design Approaches that Differentiate Gloasis

Gloasis employs a distinctive organic architectural form that mimics natural shapes found in the local environment. This aesthetic choice not only aligns with the community's ecological philosophy but also enhances airflow, crucial for comfort in a tropical climate. The buildings feature rounded edges and central communal spaces, facilitating interaction among residents while reducing the visual impact on the landscape.

Key design features include residential units that promote communal living without sacrificing privacy. The non-linear arrangement of the structures encourages a natural flow of movement, reflecting the surrounding terrain. The inclusion of farming areas, fishing zones, and foraging spaces highlights a commitment to self-sufficiency. By integrating functional gardens and water systems into the layout, Gloasis ensures that community members can engage directly with their food sources.

Innovative Features and Sustainability Initiatives

One remarkable aspect of Gloasis is its use of local materials, which enhance the project’s sustainability profile. Key materials include coconut for structural purposes and natural fiber materials for non-structural elements. Solar technologies, such as solar electric panels and solar cooling towers, are incorporated to minimize reliance on external energy sources. The design also integrates advanced waste management systems, including septic treatment tanks and methane cookers, to ensure effective recycling of waste.

The overall architecture supports flexible usage of spaces, with multifunctional areas that adapt to various needs, such as work and living. This adaptability aligns with the glomadic lifestyle, allowing for a seamless transition between communal and individual activities.

To further explore the various aspects of Gloasis, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, interested readers are encouraged to engage with the project presentation. This exploration will provide deeper insights into its innovative architectural ideas and the thoughtful design processes that contributed to this sustainable living environment.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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