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Elevated Octagonal Shelter Crafted from Galvanized Steel and Engineered Wood Panels

Author:
Doel Fresse Alvarez
Elevated Octagonal Shelter Crafted from Galvanized Steel and Engineered Wood Panels

Project in-detail

An elevated octagonal shelter utilizes galvanized steel and engineered wood panels to create a resilient and sustainable living space tailored for community use in flood-prone Caribbean regions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design enhances flood resilience in coastal environments.
02
Circular octagonal shape optimizes wind resistance while maximizing interior space.
03
Utilizes locally sourced galvanized steel and engineered wood for sustainable construction.
04
Incorporates a communal deck to promote social interaction among residents.
05
Integrated rainwater harvesting system reduces reliance on external water sources.

### Project Overview
RISE is an off-grid modular dwelling concept designed for individuals and communities in the vulnerable valleys and rural areas of the Caribbean. It aims to address the increasing demand for sustainable, climate-resilient living spaces in response to the threats posed by flooding, hurricanes, and climate change.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout features a modular design characterized by a round octagonal form, optimizing structural integrity and spatial efficiency. Key areas, including the living workspace, bathroom, sleeping quarters, kitchen, and laundry facilities, are arranged in radial symmetry. This configuration not only maximizes the use of available space but also facilitates natural airflow through open vistas, enhancing occupant comfort.

### Material Selection
RISE employs a carefully chosen array of materials that emphasize sustainability and cost-effectiveness. The primary structural components consist of painted galvanized steel beams and concrete footings, while secondary elements include engineered moulded wood panels. Interior finishes feature painted wood panels and hardy flooring, and the exterior is composed of insulated wall panels and aluminum windows and doors. Additionally, the integration of solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems supports energy efficiency and water management, addressing local environmental challenges.

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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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