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Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Pods with Greywater Recovery on a Cliff

Authors:
Beatrice Spezia, Riccardo Lazzarato, Noemi Russo, Anna Sciscio
Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Pods with Greywater Recovery on a Cliff
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Elevated on a cliff, the sleeping pods utilize fiber-reinforced concrete and efficient greywater recovery systems, providing a sustainable living option that integrates seamlessly with the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Each pod is designed for easy assembly and disassembly, allowing for minimal environmental disruption.
02
Fiber-reinforced concrete is used for structural stability, enhancing durability in a cliff-setting.
03
The design includes an efficient greywater recovery system that promotes resource conservation.
04
Photovoltaic panels are integrated for renewable energy, supporting off-grid living.
05
The layout positions the pods to optimize natural views while preserving the landscape.

The sleeping pods on a cliff offer a fresh approach to modular living. They are designed to fit into a rugged natural setting while focusing on sustainability and practicality. These pods serve as self-sufficient units, allowing occupants to experience life off the grid while blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

Structural Integrity

The sleeping pods feature a modular design that makes assembly and disassembly straightforward. Prefabricated components arrive at the construction site by helicopter and truck, minimizing the environmental impact associated with building. Once on-site, a wooden floor is laid, supported by a screw foundation that provides stability, essential for high-altitude locations.

Material Specifications

Selected materials play a significant role in ensuring the robustness and energy efficiency of the pods. Fiber cement and Xlam are used in the foundation-floor joints, helping to establish a solid base. The wall-floor junction combines fiber-reinforced concrete and extruded polystyrene, enhancing strength and insulation. For flooring, porcelain tiles are chosen for their durability and ease of maintenance.

Energy Efficiency

Each pod is designed to operate independently, incorporating modern energy systems. Water heaters equipped with heat pumps meet the heating needs, while a greywater recovery system promotes efficient water use. Photovoltaic panels harness solar energy, allowing occupants to rely less on external power sources. This focus on renewable resources aligns with the increasing demand for sustainable living arrangements.

Natural Integration

The design of the sleeping pods considers the surrounding terrain. Each unit is positioned to take advantage of the views while maintaining a low visual impact. This thoughtful placement enhances the experience for those inside and helps preserve the natural beauty of the cliff. The project emphasizes a connection to nature, reflecting the landscape's rugged characteristics.

The roof design includes a gentle slope, allowing for effective rainwater collection and creating covered outdoor spaces for relaxation. This practical feature adds functionality while enhancing the overall experience of the pods, inviting occupants to spend time outside in a natural setting.

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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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Competition organisers

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.

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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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