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Elevated Living with Natural Wood and Expansive Glass in Mediterranean Coastal Setting

Authors:
Pol Casellas manrubia, Lydia Llorens bartolomé
Elevated Living with Natural Wood and Expansive Glass in Mediterranean Coastal Setting

Project in-detail

Elevated on stilts and wrapped in expansive glass, the residence seamlessly integrates local materials like wood and marble, creating a harmonious balance between indoor and outdoor spaces for modern coastal living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated stilt design enhances flood resilience while providing panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and eco-friendly construction.
03
Features an expansive dining space anchored by a custom marble table for communal gatherings.
04
Incorporates large operable glass windows to facilitate natural ventilation and light.
05
Charred wooden shingles contribute to fire resistance while offering a contemporary aesthetic.
The Contemporary Stilt House is a well-considered architectural project located at the Delta of the Mediterranean Sea, representing a refined fusion of traditional building practices with contemporary design sensibilities. This project is not only a response to the challenges posed by the local environment, such as potential flooding, but also a commitment to sustainability and adaptability in modern living. Elevated above the ground on stilts, the structure showcases a profound understanding of its ecological context while providing an inviting and functional living space.

In essence, the Contemporary Stilt House symbolizes a modern approach to residence that respects historical context while incorporating the best of current architectural ideals. It serves as a family dwelling, designed to encourage interactions among residents while simultaneously offering private retreats. The elevated design allows for enhanced ventilation and natural light, enabling a connection between interior spaces and the surrounding natural environment. This connection is essential in fostering a harmonious living experience that blends seamlessly with the landscape.

The project features two distinct levels, providing a thoughtful spatial organization that simplifies living arrangements. The lower floor is artfully designed as an open-concept communal area. Here, the kitchen, dining, and living spaces flow into one another, promoting social interaction and flexibility. A large multifunctional dining table crafted from marble serves as the centerpiece of this space, highlighting its functionality and encouraging gatherings. Expansive windows punctuate the walls, allowing for ample natural light and views of the scenic outdoors, thereby dissolving the boundaries between inside and outside.

The upper floor is dedicated to private living spaces, where bedrooms are strategically positioned to offer a sense of privacy while maintaining access to picturesque views. Architectural plans showcase a layout that promotes a balance of openness and retreat, allowing residents to experience both communal living and personal solitude. Larger operable windows on this level further enhance the living quality, facilitating cross ventilation and maintaining a comfortable indoor climate without the need for mechanical systems.

The material palette of the Contemporary Stilt House reflects a seamless integration with its environment, emphasizing durability and sustainability. Wood is utilized for the framing and decking, creating a warm and inviting aesthetic that connects the structure to its natural surroundings. Minimal concrete is used for structural supports, ensuring strength while respecting traditional forms. Glass plays a significant role in the design, prominent in the extensive window applications, allowing for abundant light and a visual connection to the outside world.

The design also pays particular attention to climate considerations specific to the Mediterranean region. The orientation of the house capitalizes on seasonal variations—maximizing solar gain during winter months while providing adequate shading for summer heat. This thoughtful approach ensures an energy-efficient home that minimizes reliance on artificial heating or cooling, showcasing a commitment to environmentally responsible architecture.

One of the unique design approaches of this project lies in its ability to adapt traditional stilt house construction techniques to suit contemporary needs. Elevating the structure above ground not only mitigates flooding risks but also enhances aesthetic appeal by offering a dynamic visual profile in its landscape. This characteristic not only preserves the natural flow of water in the area but also engages with local customs, making it a testament to the area's architectural lineage.

The Contemporary Stilt House embodies a modern architectural ethos focused on sustainability, adaptability, and community interaction. It encourages residents to embrace their natural environment while enjoying functional and aesthetically pleasing living spaces. For those interested in detailed architectural plans, sections, and various design elements that underscore the project’s innovative ideas, exploring the full presentation of this project is highly recommended. This investigation offers valuable insight into the intricate design methodologies and ecological considerations that define this remarkable architectural achievement.
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MICROHOME
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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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