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Elevated Living Spaces Crafted from Shipping Containers with Sustainable Wall Panels

Authors:
Kareem Omar Abdelmonem Bolbol, Aldina Xhelaj, Sarah Omar Abdelmoneim Bolbol
Elevated Living Spaces Crafted from Shipping Containers with Sustainable Wall Panels

Project in-detail

Elevated structures constructed from shipping containers and enhanced with sustainable wall panels create a flood-resilient community focused on shared living and self-sufficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated on pillars, the homes provide flood protection while enabling under-home gardening.
02
Constructed primarily from recycled shipping containers, promoting sustainability and reducing waste.
03
The U-shaped layout fosters social interaction and creates communal gathering spaces.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems are integrated, enhancing water management and self-sufficiency.
05
Solar panels are incorporated into the design, supporting renewable energy use for the community.
The project "Rising Together: U-Shaped Flood-Resilient Community" focuses on creating a sustainable habitat that addresses the increasing challenges posed by climate change, particularly flooding. This architectural design integrates a community-centric model within a U-shaped layout that fosters social connection while ensuring resilience against environmental adversities. The layout allows for efficient use of space while promoting interaction among residents and supporting various community activities.

Innovatively, this project combines the principles of sustainable architecture with functional design. The elevated structures guard against flood damage and allow for under-home agriculture, emphasizing self-sufficiency. The project represents a shift in traditional urban design, moving towards adaptable and resilient living environments.

Sustainability and Community Integration
This project incorporates several essential features that distinguish it from conventional housing developments. The integration of community farming spaces allows residents to cultivate their own food, promoting sustainability and healthy living. The use of recyclable materials, such as shipping containers and eco-friendly wall panels, positions the project as environmentally conscious. These materials not only contribute to a reduced ecological footprint but also provide modern aesthetics.

The design directs attention to communal spaces designed for social interaction. Gathering areas serve as focal points for residents and encourage shared experiences, reinforcing the project's community-oriented philosophy. Flexibility in architectural layouts enables these spaces to adapt to varying community needs, making them essential in promoting collaborative living.

Innovative Architectural Features
The elevation of the homes on pillars forms a critical element of this design, providing a protective measure against flooding while enhancing airflow. This innovative approach incorporates natural climate resilience without sacrificing comfort. Furthermore, the design includes renewable energy solutions, visible through the use of solar panels, which contribute to the community's self-sufficiency and lower environmental impact.

The microhouse design integrates functional storage and flexible room configurations, making effective use of limited space. Interior solutions focus on accessibility and usability, ensuring that the architecture supports the daily lives of residents.

This architectural project serves as a model for future developments that seek to balance community cohesion with environmental sustainability. The emphasis on flood resilience, communal living, and sustainable practices presents a thoughtful approach to addressing the pressing issues of urban habitats.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation. Understanding the architectural ideas and innovative elements showcased in this project can inform future designs and urban planning initiatives.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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