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Elevated Structures Embracing Mangroves for Resilient Coastal Living

Author:
Trevor Boyle
Elevated Structures Embracing Mangroves for Resilient Coastal Living

Project in-detail

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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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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