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Elevated Living Spaces Featuring Recycled Plastic Panels and Plywood Construction

Author:
Tommaso Zanini
Elevated Living Spaces Featuring Recycled Plastic Panels and Plywood Construction

Project in-detail

Utilizing an elevated design with plywood construction and recycled plastic panels, this residence offers a sustainable solution to flood resilience while maximizing adaptable living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated living spaces provide protection against flooding while maintaining accessibility.
02
Recycled plastic panels integrate sustainability into the structural design.
03
Flexibility in interior layout allows for dynamic use of space throughout the day.
04
Green roofs enhance biodiversity and offer opportunities for urban agriculture.
05
Plywood sandwich panels deliver insulation and structural strength in a lightweight form.
The project titled "Upside Down" presents an innovative architectural solution designed to address flooding concerns while maximizing space efficiency. This residential building is strategically elevated, repositioning traditional living areas above potential flood levels. The resultant design integrates flexible living spaces tailored for various activities throughout the day, emphasizing adaptability in urban environments.

Unique Design Approaches
The "Upside Down" project incorporates a distinctive approach to space utilization and functionality. By inverting the conventional layout, the design elevates the core living areas, allowing the ground floor to serve as a water-resistant buffer. This arrangement not only protects inhabitants from rising waters but also provides opportunities for multifunctional use of the elevated space. The open floor plan allows residents to reconfigure their environment easily, facilitating both private and communal activities.

Another key aspect of the design is the integration of sustainable practices, notably the use of recycled materials. The application of recycled plastic panels in conjunction with plywood sandwich panels demonstrates a commitment to minimizing the ecological footprint. Moreover, the incorporation of a gravity-fed rainwater collection system enables efficient water management, emphasizing self-sufficiency and resource conservation in the architectural framework.

Sustainable Material Selection
The strategic selection of materials enhances the functionality and sustainability of the project. Plywood sandwich panels form the structural backbone, providing insulation and durability. Thermo-acoustic insulation installed within walls assists in maintaining comfortable interior climates. The inclusion of clay for surrounding elements offers weather-resistant properties, while wood adds a natural aesthetic to the living spaces.

Each component of the design reflects a careful consideration of how materials can contribute to the overall resilience of the structure. Additionally, green roofs and terraces support urban agriculture, promoting ecological sustainability and allowing residents to engage with their environment meaningfully.

Explore the project’s architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain a deeper understanding of "Upside Down" and its innovative approach to contemporary architectural challenges. Delve into the unique architectural ideas that underpin this project and see how they offer practical solutions for living in harmony with changing environmental conditions.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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