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Floatable Circular Residence Anchored by Wood and Sustainable Practices

Authors:
Carlo Hernandez, Daniel Segovia, Jimena Rolon
Floatable Circular Residence Anchored by Wood and Sustainable Practices

Project in-detail

A buoyant circular residence constructed from wood utilizes rainwater harvesting and solar energy to support marine biologists in their efforts to observe and conserve the diverse marine life of the Gulf of California.
5 key facts about this project
01
A circular layout optimizes space for observation and interaction with marine life.
02
Wooden construction reduces the carbon footprint while enhancing structural flexibility.
03
Rainwater is collected on the roof and utilized for storage and waste management.
04
Solar panels integrated into shutters provide renewable energy for daily use.
05
A buoyant design allows the structure to adapt to changing water levels.

The residence located in the Gulf of California, known as the Sea of Cortés, serves as a home and observation area for marine biologists. This region, renowned for its rich marine life, is situated between the Baja California peninsula and the states of Sonora and Sinaloa, making it ideal for scientific research and conservation efforts. The design is centered around circular patterns that promote functionality while creating a strong bond with the natural surroundings.

Design Concept

The circular form enhances space organization, allowing for a fluid connection between various living areas. This layout is designed for effective engagement with nature, enabling residents to observe the nearby marine life. As a site dedicated to monitoring illegal fishing, the residence also aims to offer protection to vulnerable species like sea lions, turtles, and the vaquita, highlighting its role as a refuge for wildlife.

Materials and Sustainability

Wood is the primary material selected for construction, chosen due to its environmental advantages. This choice aligns with sustainable practices while maintaining the structural integrity of the home. The use of wood reflects a commitment to eco-friendly materials, fitting for such a sensitive ecological area.

Energy Efficiency and Water Management

Energy-efficient systems are integrated into the design, enhancing the building's sustainability. Solar panels embedded in the top shutters allow for energy generation that adjusts to daily needs. Additionally, the residence features a water management system that collects rainwater from the roof. This water is routed through the structure for storage, with a compartment that also houses organic waste and an air chamber to assist with buoyancy in its coastal location.

Functional Zoning

The layout is carefully divided to serve different functions. The lower floor includes essential spaces such as the kitchen, bathroom, work area, and living room, supporting everyday activities. The upper floor is reserved for rest and observation, offering peaceful views that connect occupants to the marine environment. This arrangement provides a balance between utility and comfort, encouraging a lifestyle that is in tune with nature.

The design's attention to a buoyant structure combined with its circular form provides a unique living experience that reflects a commitment to sustainability. The overall approach fosters a close relationship with the coastal environment, enhancing both daily living and the wellbeing of local wildlife.

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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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