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Elevated Structures Embracing Mangroves for Resilient Coastal Living

Author:
Trevor Boyle
Elevated Structures Embracing Mangroves for Resilient Coastal Living
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Elevated structures integrated with local mangrove ecosystems provide a resilient solution for coastal living in Florida, addressing the challenges of rising sea levels while promoting community engagement and ecological balance.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated ground floor designed to adapt to changing water levels.
02
Incorporation of local mangrove ecosystems to enhance biodiversity.
03
Form optimized for wind flow to reduce structural impact.
04
Provisions for a rail system to improve community connectivity.
05
Transitional spaces created to bridge underwater and above-water environments.

The project situated in Florida addresses the growing concerns around rising sea levels and climate change. Elevated buildings are proposed to adapt to the challenges faced by coastal areas while maintaining the value of properties at risk from environmental changes. This design aims to create a practical response to flooding, providing residents with a comfortable living space in an evolving climate.

Elevated Structures

Central to the design is the strategy of raising buildings above predicted flood levels. With estimates suggesting sea levels could rise between 6 to 18 feet, the elevation of structures serves a dual purpose. It not only protects the properties from future inundation but also supports the preservation of existing coastal property values. This careful consideration makes the structures more resilient and sustainable in the long term.

Integration with Natural Elements

The design draws inspiration from the local ecosystem, particularly the mangrove plants that help protect coastlines. The root systems of these ecosystems shape the design of the ground floor, creating spaces that can nurture aquatic life. This integration contributes to local biodiversity and fosters a visual connection between the buildings and their natural surroundings, emphasizing the harmony between the built and natural environments.

Fluidity and Structural Integrity

A key feature of the design is its focus on the movement of water and wind. The overall form is created to encourage airflow and manage wind resistance, which is important for hurricane-prone regions. This attention to detail enhances the structural stability of the buildings while ensuring they can endure extreme weather conditions, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change.

Transportation and Community Accessibility

Future transportation needs are also a consideration, as the reliance on cars may diminish due to flooding. The design includes plans for an efficient rail system that connects new mixed-use developments along the coast. This aspect promotes community interactions and provides easy access, creating an integrated urban environment that serves the needs of residents.

Public areas on the ground floor are designed to adjust to changing water levels. These open spaces serve multiple purposes, functioning as both public gathering spots and habitats for local wildlife. This design approach emphasizes the connection between architecture and ecology, ensuring that the built environment remains adaptable and responsive to the challenges ahead.

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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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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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