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Elevated Living Spaces With Aluminum Panels and Natural Wood Warmth

Authors:
Cristóbal Andrés Hernández Berríos, Carlos Torres
Elevated Living Spaces With Aluminum Panels and Natural Wood Warmth

Project in-detail

Elevated structures made from aluminum panels and warm timber offer adaptable housing solutions tailored to the diverse climates of Chile, addressing both environmental resilience and community integration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design to mitigate temperature extremes in the Atacama Desert.
02
Modular system allows for customizable living configurations.
03
Integration with existing urban social housing to foster community.
04
Use of aluminum panels for enhanced weather resistance and insulation.
05
Incorporation of natural wood finishes for warmth and aesthetic appeal.
The Mara Mori House is an architectural design project focused on providing sustainable, adaptable housing solutions in diverse environments across Chile. Inspired by Pablo Neruda’s poem "Ode to my Socks," this project aims to merge beauty with practicality, creating homes that are not only functional but also attuned to the cultural and environmental context of their locations.

The project features a modular design that allows for flexibility in residential configurations. Each house can be tailored to accommodate varying family sizes and living preferences, reflecting the principle of accessibility in architecture. The design takes into account regional challenges such as climate extremes and urban density, enhancing its relevance as a housing solution.

Unique Design Approaches and Environmental Context

What sets the Mara Mori House apart from other housing projects is its incorporation of modularity across different geographical settings. In the Atacama Desert, for example, elevated structures are used to mitigate temperature fluctuations and optimize land use. For coastal areas, the design anticipates rising sea levels through elevated living spaces, enhancing resilience against potential flooding. In urban settings, rooftops of existing social housing are utilized, fostering a sense of community and cooperation among residents.

Materials selected for the construction play an essential role in ensuring durability, sustainability, and aesthetic coherence. Steel profiles are employed for structural support, while aluminum composite panels ensure weather resistance and insulation. The use of wood within the interiors creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, aligning with the desire for comfort in living spaces. Elastic fabric is also utilized in roof structures, offering adaptability and enhancing the overall design's functionality.

Architectural Functionality and Aesthetic Considerations

Functionality in the Mara Mori House extends to both individual units and their integration into broader communities. Interior spaces optimize usability with melamine cabinetry for storage and gypsum board for ease of construction. The design prioritizes energy efficiency and environmental consciousness, featuring elements that reflect a commitment to reducing the ecological impact of housing.

The aesthetic approach maintains simplicity while resonating with the local context, utilizing a color palette that echoes natural surroundings. This connection to the landscape enhances the project's visual identity and fosters a sense of belonging for residents.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Mara Mori House, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs. Delving into these architectural ideas will provide insights into the innovative approaches employed in this meaningful housing solution.
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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
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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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