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Concrete Float With Solar Modules on Coastal Lake

Author:
Olwia Gałwa
Concrete Float With Solar Modules on Coastal Lake

Project in-detail

Set on the coastal lake Jamno, the design incorporates a floating concrete structure with solar modules, optimizing sustainability while providing a multifunctional living space that transforms between workspace and bedroom.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating structure designed to adapt to lake water levels.
02
Utilizes concrete float as both foundation and waste tank.
03
Transformable workspace seamlessly converts to a bedroom.
04
Incorporates movable solar blinds for energy efficiency.
05
Glass walls provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The design creates a floating unit on the coastal lake Jamno, an area rich in history linked to the village of Jamno. It addresses the need for small living spaces in a time of limited investment areas. The concept is rooted in the local identity, which dates back to the Middle Ages when the village was an important center of Jamenian culture. Drawing inspiration from the simplified shape of a local church, the design captures a contrast between sacred and everyday life, providing a new type of residential experience.

Design Concept

The approach emphasizes modularity and adaptability, allowing for the creation of housing communities that encourage social interactions among residents. The layout reflects modern living requirements while preserving a connection to the rich historical context of the area.

Functional Layout

There is a multifunctional workspace that combines a desk and armchairs with a relaxing area, prominently featuring a sofa made from mattresses. This design enables the desk and chairs to slide into a recess in the wall, efficiently using available space. When unfolded, the sofa transforms into a bed, converting the workspace into a bedroom and enhancing functionality.

Structural Elements

A concrete float serves as both the foundation and a tank for water and waste. This choice of material supports the unit's unique needs. Movable blinds with solar modules also provide energy for the living space, embedding sustainability within the design. A sliding ladder allows easy access to a mezzanine, optimizing vertical space and adding to the overall usability.

Orientation and Views

The building is oriented with glass walls facing the lake, allowing for abundant natural light and offering views of the surrounding landscape. This setup connects the indoor space with the natural environment, enriching the living experience. Notably, the expansive glass facade facilitates a flow between the interior and the scenic views, reinforcing a close relationship with the tranquil setting of the lake.

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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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