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Elevated Living with a Central Water Tower and Lightweight Structure

Authors:
Andy Au, Luoyi Chen
Elevated Living with a Central Water Tower and Lightweight Structure
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A central water tower encases a spiral staircase in this modular house, promoting air circulation and elevated living while effectively responding to tropical climate conditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
A spiral staircase is housed within a central water cooling tower for enhanced air circulation.
02
The modular design allows for easy adaptation to various rural settings.
03
Elevated living spaces provide increased safety and environmental oversight.
04
Dedicated focus on lightweight materials ensures structural integrity with minimal impact.
05
The integration of climate-responsive features enhances comfort across tropical environments.

The Dandelion Modular House 2022 showcases an innovative approach to modern living through the use of modular design. Located in a setting that demands flexibility, the residence addresses the relationship between its elements and the spaces they create. The concept focuses on the idea of interdependence while emphasizing functionality and connection with the environment, resulting in a practical and efficient housing solution.

Central Design Element

A key feature of the Dandelion Modular House is the central stairwell, which acts as the heart of the home. This space supports air circulation, improving indoor air quality and promoting a healthier living environment. The design also incorporates a spiral staircase situated within a water cooling tower. This choice harmonizes practicality and visual appeal, enhancing the home's functionality.

Adaptation to Climate

The house anticipates various climate conditions, including those typical of rainforest, tropical savanna, and tropical monsoon environments. By considering these climatic factors, the design ensures resilience and comfort throughout all seasons. This adaptability is particularly important in rural areas, where changes in weather can have significant impacts on daily life.

Modularity and Elevated Living

The modular and stackable design allows the Dandelion Modular House to adapt to its surroundings efficiently. This elevated living model reduces exposure to ground-level risks, improving safety. It also offers occupants the benefit of greater visibility over their surroundings, akin to the security provided by treehouses while maintaining a sense of refuge and comfort.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability is woven into the design through the reuse of materials, reflecting a commitment to ecological responsibility. Though specific materials are not disclosed, the emphasis on lightweight building elements suggests a choice aimed at ensuring structural stability without negatively impacting the environment.

The project culminates in the thoughtful arrangement of its design elements. This creates a cohesive space that fosters connection and personal experiences, highlighting a refined engagement with contemporary requirements for living.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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