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Deployable Living Using PTFE and Lightweight Wood in Amazonian Context

Author:
Somesh Tripathi
Deployable Living Using PTFE and Lightweight Wood in Amazonian Context

Project in-detail

Utilizing a deployable structure built from lightweight wood and PTFE membranes, the design merges flexibility with ecological sensitivity to provide a sustainable living space that resonates with the Amazonian environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Kinetic Bud can expand in three dimensions for adaptable living arrangements.
02
The design incorporates PTFE membranes for enhanced thermal performance and natural light.
03
A central column ensures efficient load distribution and structural integrity.
04
Modular walls allow for configuration changes to suit user preferences and needs.
05
Magnetically operated windows facilitate easy airflow management and ventilation.

The Kinetic Bud project is located in Manaus, Amazonas, and serves as a modular living space designed for flexibility and sustainability. Inspired by the Amazon rainforest and its flora, the project aims to provide users with adaptable environments that address modern living conditions while promoting environmental awareness. The design integrates natural elements to facilitate a connection between people and the surrounding landscape.

Modular Design and Deployment

At the heart of Kinetic Bud is its modular design, which allows for easy expansion. The structure can grow in multiple directions depending on user needs, making it suitable for varied settings. This flexibility ensures that different areas within the home can serve distinct purposes, offering both communal spaces and individual retreats. Such thoughtful organization supports a balanced lifestyle, allowing for both interaction and privacy.

Material Efficiency and Sustainability

Materials play an essential role in the overall performance of Kinetic Bud. The framework primarily consists of lightweight wood, which creates a strong structure without unnecessary heaviness. PTFE, or Polytetrafluoroethylene, is utilized in the membrane coverings. This choice enhances energy efficiency by providing excellent thermal insulation. An aluminum frame supports the overall design while keeping the structure light. Together, these materials contribute to a sustainable approach that respects the environment.

Natural Ventilation and User Comfort

Natural ventilation is a key aspect of this design, enhancing comfort for users. Features such as windows that operate on magnetic principles allow for easy airflow management. The arrangement of spaces is designed to strengthen the relationship between indoor and outdoor environments, inviting fresh air and sunlight inside. This integration is important for promoting a healthy living atmosphere, which is particularly valuable in a tropical setting like Amazonas.

In the interior courtyard, spaces are thoughtfully arranged to encourage shared experiences while allowing room for personal reflection. The layout fosters a sense of community while maintaining the freedom to retreat into private areas, offering a balanced living experience.

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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

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