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Elevated Bamboo Structure Featuring Adaptive Panels for Communal Living

Authors:
Christian Boettger, James Mcallister, Dreux Santos-quesnel
Elevated Bamboo Structure Featuring Adaptive Panels for Communal Living

Project in-detail

Elevated above potential flood levels, the structure incorporates bamboo and adaptive panels to create a flexible communal living space that fosters interaction and resilience in Vietnam's rural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design enhances flood resilience while maintaining accessibility.
02
Integration of adaptive panels allows for adjustable lighting and ventilation.
03
Community layout fosters social interaction around a central garden space.
04
Bamboo construction maximizes sustainability and minimizes environmental impact.
05
Woven mats provide versatile flooring with enhanced airflow and storage options.
The Folding Face House is an architectural project strategically situated in the rural landscape of Vietnam. This design integrates cultural traditions with contemporary living, promoting communal interaction while responding to the region's climatic conditions. The project reflects an ongoing dialogue with its environment, utilizing sustainable materials and innovative design principles that focus on adaptability and resource conservation.

Community-Centric Design Approach

The architectural layout is organized in a radial form, allowing for efficient spatial distribution and fostering a sense of community among residents. This arrangement features a central communal garden that serves as a focal point for social gatherings and agricultural activities. The design prioritizes interaction through the configuration of living spaces, which include a main living area, kitchen, and private bedrooms, all oriented to encourage movement and communal engagement.

Utilizing bamboo timber as the primary construction material significantly distinguishes this project. Bamboo’s rapid growth rate and structural properties make it an excellent choice for sustainable architecture. The use of woven mats for flooring adds to the project’s adaptability, facilitating storage and enhancing air circulation. Additionally, concrete footings elevate the structure, providing protection from potential flooding and climate variability in the region.

Innovative Facade and Environmental Adaptability

One of the key features of the Folding Face House is its dynamic facade, which employs adjustable panels that can be repositioned to optimize light and airflow. This innovative element is crucial for maintaining comfortable indoor conditions while reducing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems. The strategic incorporation of glass in the facade design enhances transparency, allowing natural light penetration and unimpeded views of the surrounding landscape.

Furthermore, the project addresses water management through an integrated filtration system that captures rooftop runoff for potable use. This feature reflects a commitment to sustainable resource management, reducing environmental impact and promoting responsible water use among residents.

With its focus on community, sustainability, and flexibility, the Folding Face House stands apart from typical residential projects. The thoughtful integration of architectural ideas rooted in local culture fosters a living environment that promotes social interaction while being resilient to changing climatic conditions.

For further exploration of this project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design elements, consider delving into the full presentation. Engaging with these materials will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the architectural strategies employed and the overall design philosophy of the Folding Face House.
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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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