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Elevated Oyster Castles and Bakau Wood Create Sustainable Coastal Living

Author:
Ho Nam Wong
Elevated Oyster Castles and Bakau Wood Create Sustainable Coastal Living

Project in-detail

Constructed using locally sourced Bakau wood and designed with elevated oyster castles, the architecture addresses coastal resilience while providing essential housing for fishermen and their families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed from locally sourced Bakau wood, enhancing resilience against coastal conditions.
02
Features elevated oyster castles that promote marine biodiversity and aquaculture.
03
Includes rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water management in a coastal context.
04
Utilizes openable roof panels for natural ventilation and interaction with the environment.
05
Embodies a microhome design that fosters community engagement among fishermen families.
The Fisherman's House is an architectural project located on the southern coast of Penang, Malaysia. It serves as a contemporary living space designed specifically for local fishermen, reflecting their needs and cultural practices. The house integrates innovative design approaches while considering socio-economic conditions and environmental challenges unique to the region. By prioritizing sustainability and community resilience, the project offers both functional and symbolic benefits to its inhabitants.

Function and Layout

The Fisherman's House is structured as a microhome that facilitates essential activities while promoting social interaction among residents. It includes several key functional zones across multiple levels. The lower level features a docking area, laundry facilities, and oyster castles that contribute to local aquaculture and biodiversity. The central level contains the living and kitchen areas, designed for family gatherings and daily activities. The upper level is reserved for private sleeping quarters, enhanced by expansive views of the coastal landscape. This layout effectively addresses the practical needs of fishermen families while fostering a sense of community.

Unique Design Approaches

A notable aspect of this project is its approach to environmental sustainability. The architecture utilizes Bakau wood for construction, leveraging its resilience against wet conditions common in coastal areas. The use of aluminum corrugated roofing provides durability and effective drainage, crucial for maintaining structural integrity during intense weather.

The integration of oyster castle foundations not only serves as a structural base but also acts as an artificial reef, fostering marine life and improving the ecological conditions of the surrounding waters. This dual function highlights a commitment to ecological restoration, demonstrating how architectural design can mediate human activities and environmental conservation.

In addition, the design features openable roof panels that enhance natural ventilation, allowing residents to connect with their surroundings while minimizing reliance on mechanical systems. The inclusion of a rainwater harvesting system aligns with sustainable water management practices, essential for communities that depend on variable climatic conditions.

Material Efficiency and Local Relevance

The architectural design emphasizes material efficiency and local context. By sourcing locally available materials such as Bakau wood, the project not only supports the local economy but also respects cultural traditions associated with fishing and coastal living. The choice of prefabricated concrete modules for the base enhances construction efficiency and stability, enabling quick assembly and reinforcement against environmental challenges.

The Fisherman's House stands out from conventional residential projects by integrating ecological considerations into its design principles. It offers a model for future developments in coastal areas, where adaptation to environmental changes is increasingly essential.

For further insights, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and overall design concepts presented in the supplementary materials associated with the Fisherman's House project.
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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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