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Elevated Living Units Crafted From Carbon Fiber and Aerostatic Materials

Author:
Aleksei Kononenko
Elevated Living Units Crafted From Carbon Fiber and Aerostatic Materials

Project in-detail

Utilizing a combination of hydrogen-filled aerostatic structures and 3D printed carbon fiber, these elevated living units offer a sustainable and compact housing solution, redefining contemporary residential design in urban contexts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a hydrogen and helium mixture for buoyancy in elevated units.
02
Constructed using advanced polar 3D printing techniques for structural efficiency.
03
Incorporates solar panels for energy self-sufficiency and minimal environmental impact.
04
Features a circular layout to optimize space and promote sustainable living.
05
Eliminates traditional foundations, allowing adaptability to various urban settings.

### Overview

Located in diverse urban contexts, the design focuses on residential units called "Gondolas" and "Aerostats," emphasizing sustainability and autonomy. The intent is to create adaptable and transportable living environments that minimize reliance on traditional infrastructural systems. By elevating living spaces, the project seeks to blend functional living with ecological sensitivity.

### Spatial Organization and Flexibility

The design elevates living units by 2.5 to 3.0 tons above ground, eliminating the need for conventional foundations. This innovative elevation facilitates strategic placement within varying urban landscapes and natural reserves, allowing for flexible integration with the environment. The interior is organized in circular arrangements, enhancing spatial efficiency and promoting natural ventilation and daylight access.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The construction employs advanced materials, including a 3D-printed framework for lightweight structural integrity and a double kerf shell for the Aerostat units, using a safe hydrogen and helium mixture. Future proposals introduce high-strength carbon fiber to further reduce the environmental impact. The systems incorporate solar panels for energy self-sufficiency, alongside integrated septic tanks and water generators for effective waste management and resource recycling. This cohesive approach to material use not only prioritizes sustainability but also supports eco-friendly living practices.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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