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Elevated Timber Modules for Flood-Resilient Living

Author:
Olle Johnsson
Elevated Timber Modules for Flood-Resilient Living

Project in-detail

Elevated above potential flooding, this residential design integrates modular wooden units and incorporates renewable energy systems to create a sustainable living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure allows for efficient flood resistance.
02
Modular design facilitates easy customization and adaptation.
03
Incorporates renewable energy systems for sustainable living.
04
Pillars reduce ground disruption and enhance privacy.
05
Vertical zoning creates distinct public and private living areas.

The Shelf is a residential design aimed at addressing the challenges brought about by flooding and rising sea levels. Located in an adaptable setting, the design promotes livability while focusing on sustainability. By elevating living spaces on pillars and utilizing modular construction, the design not only protects against environmental threats but also creates flexible areas for modern living.

Spatial Configuration

The structure consists of five plates raised above the ground, resting on sturdy pillars that provide stability and resistance to flooding. A staircase wraps around the building, making it easy to access all areas. The layout prioritizes open spaces while ensuring the structure can withstand strong winds and other forces typical of extreme weather scenarios.

Modular Design

Within the elevated plates, wooden modules define specific living functions. This modular setup allows for changes over time to meet the occupants' varying needs. Stacking functional spaces optimizes land use, making the design suitable for narrower plots in urban areas. This arrangement supports a flexible living environment, accommodating different lifestyles and family dynamics.

Sustainability

Sustainability is central to the concept of The Shelf. It uses prefabricated cross-laminated timber, which promotes rapid construction while reducing environmental impact. This choice reflects a commitment to conserving resources. The design also incorporates renewable energy systems, such as wind power and rainwater collection, which enhance self-sufficiency for residents.

Vertical Privacy

A key feature is the approach to vertical privacy in the design. The layout separates living spaces into distinct zones that move from public to private. This arrangement increases feelings of safety and comfort for residents, balancing community engagement with personal space. The thoughtful design promotes coexistence of shared and individual areas, ensuring inhabitants feel connected but not exposed.

The elegant cantilevers of the upper plates create a modern silhouette against the landscape. This design serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, maintaining practicality in urban living while harmonizing with the surroundings.

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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

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