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Cylindrical Housing Units Constructed from Composite Boards for Sustainable Community Living

Cylindrical Housing Units Constructed from Composite Boards for Sustainable Community Living
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Constructed from sustainable composite boards, these modular cylindrical units provide adaptable housing solutions that facilitate community integration for vulnerable migrant populations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed from crushed and reconstructed composite boards for enhanced sustainability.
02
Cylindrical modules promote efficient ventilation and natural cooling.
03
Integrated biological purification systems manage water resources effectively.
04
Community spaces encourage social interaction among residents.
05
Designed to easily configure into clusters for flexible living arrangements.

### Architectural Analysis Report: Haven Horizon

#### Overview
Haven Horizon is situated in Sicily, a region significantly impacted by the humanitarian crisis stemming from mass migration. With more than 200,340 migrants arriving on its shores by January 2024, the project aims to provide innovative housing solutions that promote dignity, hope, and new opportunities for individuals seeking refuge. The design is a direct response to social challenges, focusing on creating an environment that fosters integration and community support for vulnerable populations, particularly unaccompanied minors and women.

#### Materiality and Construction Approach
The architectural composition includes cylindrical modules constructed from sustainable materials, specifically crushed and reconstructed composite boards. This technique embodies the project's philosophy of "from wrecks to rebirth," reinforcing an eco-friendly approach. The cylindrical forms are clustered to symbolize social cohesion while optimizing natural cooling and ventilation, which are essential in the Sicilian climate.

Key materials utilized in construction comprise corrosion-resistant copper for exterior elements, transparent polycarbonate for partitions, and reinforced concrete for structural bases. Additionally, integrated biological purification systems and solar panels significantly enhance both sustainability and resource efficiency, minimizing waste through a circular economy approach.

#### Spatial Configuration and Functionality
The design incorporates shared spaces such as cooking areas, bathrooms, laundry facilities, and gathering zones, all aimed at encouraging social interaction and cultural exchange among residents. Each cylindrical module is equipped with a kitchenette, seating area, and private sleeping quarters, allowing for flexible living arrangements. Modular aggregation permits the formation of community clusters, fostering collaboration and cooperative living.

Further, innovative water purification and energy systems have been implemented to enhance self-sufficiency. Rainwater harvesting and wastewater treatment contribute to an independent living environment, while natural ventilation mechanisms reduce reliance on artificial cooling. Solar energy integration supports energy sustainability, lowering overall energy consumption.

The overarching framework of Haven Horizon not only addresses immediate housing needs but also strives to create connections between migrants and the host community, thereby facilitating smoother transitions into local society.

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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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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
Prize 100,000 €
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