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Community housing incorporating floating structures and locally sourced wood in an aquatic environment

Authors:
Jackson William Franks, Zeynep Gul, Godwin Cyrus Golocan Gagaza
Community housing incorporating floating structures and locally sourced wood in an aquatic environment

Project in-detail

Nestled in the waterways of Lagos, this community housing project features modular floating structures crafted from locally sourced wood, designed to harmonize with the aquatic landscape while promoting sustainable living and cultural resilience.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The project utilizes a unique floating foundation system that adapitates to seasonal water level fluctuations in Lagos.
02
Hexagonal housing units are designed for modularity, allowing easy reconfiguration to accommodate changing family sizes and community needs.
03
Integrating bio-digesters made from repurposed plastic drums promotes effective waste management and resource recycling within the community.
04
Natural fiber nets are employed in design elements to enhance ventilation while maintaining connections to the surrounding aquatic environment.
05
Communal market spaces are incorporated to support local livelihoods, facilitating traditional fishing and trading practices within the housing complex.
The Awujo-Omi project is an architectural undertaking located in the vibrant Makoko community of Lagos, Nigeria. This project stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to engage with local cultures and environmental contexts, reflecting an understanding of the unique challenges faced by residents living in this aquatic urban environment. The design emphasizes a blend of functionality, community integration, and sustainability, making it a relevant example of contemporary architecture tailored to specific social and ecological circumstances.

At its core, the Awujo-Omi project represents an inclusive approach to community living, focusing on modular housing solutions that respond to both individual and collective needs. The design aims to foster a sense of belonging while improving living standards in a region characterized by its traditional stilt structures and waterways. The architectural layout features hexagonal units that maximize spatial efficiency, encouraging social interaction and collaboration among residents. This design not only addresses the urgent need for housing but also integrates the cultural practices inherent to life on the water, allowing for spaces that support activities such as fishing and trading.

One of the most significant aspects of this project is its emphasis on environmentally sensitive design principles. The use of materials such as locally sourced wood for paneling and Gabon structures underscores a commitment to sustainability while enhancing the aesthetic quality of the living spaces. The inclusion of innovative waste management systems utilizing plastic drums as biodigesters further illustrates a proactive approach to environmental stewardship. These features highlight how architecture can mitigate ecological impacts while enriching the quality of life for its inhabitants.

The floating elements of the Awujo-Omi project distinguish it from traditional architectural types, adapting seamlessly to the geographical nuances of Lagos. Paths and platforms with buoyant properties facilitate movement across the water, enhancing accessibility for residents and embodying a rare blending of architecture with its natural surroundings. This thoughtful integration promotes a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the water, allowing residents to engage deeply with their context.

A key design approach in this project is the principle of modularity. By allowing for easy modification of living spaces, the project accommodates the dynamic nature of community life in Makoko. This flexibility ensures that the architecture remains relevant and responsive to changing demographics and needs, making it an effective model for future developments in similar contexts. The architectural designs also prioritize the integration of living and working areas, contributing to economic sustainability for residents.

Furthermore, the project creates communal spaces that are essential for enhancing social cohesion. By facilitating interactions among residents, these shared areas contribute positively to community ties and create opportunities for collaboration and support. The use of nets and open structures encourages natural ventilation and light while maintaining an unobtrusive relationship with the environment.

The Awujo-Omi project embodies a philosophy that prioritizes the well-being of both individuals and the greater community. It serves as an example of how architectural design can be harnessed effectively to reflect local culture while addressing pressing environmental and social challenges. The unique approaches adopted in this architectural project offer valuable insights into integrating innovative design with community needs.

For those interested in exploring further, a review of the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas of the Awujo-Omi project will provide deeper insights into the comprehensive thinking behind this significant design. By delving into these elements, readers can appreciate the intricate details and overarching vision that inform this remarkable architectural endeavor.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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