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Floatable Shelter Constructed With Polycarbonate and Timber for Seamless Nature Integration

Authors:
Alfredo Barreno wadsworth, Fiorella Valdivia fonseca
Floatable Shelter Constructed With Polycarbonate and Timber for Seamless Nature Integration

Project in-detail

Constructed with transparent polycarbonate and a timber frame, the floating shelter integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings to provide a versatile living space that fosters a deep connection to the environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design includes removable panels that allow for customizable interaction with the environment.
02
Constructed with transparent polycarbonate, the shelter maximizes natural light while maintaining insulation.
03
The floating capability enables placement on water bodies, enhancing its versatility and adaptability.
04
Integrates a greywater management system, promoting sustainable water use within the living space.
05
Features perforated aluminum panels that enhance ventilation and protect against insects.
The architectural project in focus, titled "A Shelter Between Worlds," is a thoughtful representation of sustainable living that seeks to seamlessly connect human habitation with the natural environment. This design marries functionality with innovation, creating a space that is adaptable to different contexts while maintaining a commitment to ecological principles. The shelter embodies a vision of architecture that aims to enhance the inhabitants' experience of their surroundings by emphasizing interaction with nature.

This project serves not only as a residential dwelling but also as a multifunctional space designed to accommodate various lifestyles and preferences. Its unique structural approach allows it to adapt to differing climatic conditions and topographies, including the ability to float on water bodies. By doing so, it challenges conventional notions of architecture, presenting a more fluid interpretation of living spaces that can exist harmoniously within diverse environments.

The architectural design features a series of carefully considered elements that contribute to its overall functionality and aesthetic. The elongated, boat-like form of the shelter not only enhances its visual appeal but also promotes wind resistance and effective water drainage, demonstrating a practical response to environmental challenges. The use of large windows throughout the structure allows for abundant natural light and sweeping views of the landscape, fostering a deep connection between indoors and outdoors.

The interior layout of "A Shelter Between Worlds" prioritizes flexibility and user adaptability. The space is organized into multifunctional zones, catering to activities like sleeping, working, and relaxing. This modular approach is complemented by furniture that emphasizes simplicity and utility, ensuring that spaces remain uncluttered and open. The interior design reflects a contemporary aesthetic while also being practical, allowing for a comfortable living experience.

Materiality is a significant aspect of the project, with careful selection of building materials that promote sustainability and resilience. Key materials include wood for structural elements, polycarbonate panels for glazing, perforated aluminum for ventilation, and OSB panels for walls. These choices not only enhance the visual character of the building but also contribute to thermal efficiency and structural integrity. Additionally, the incorporation of renewable energy systems, such as solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system, positions the project at the forefront of eco-conscious architecture.

In many ways, the design of "A Shelter Between Worlds" embodies a modern interpretation of biophilia, inviting nature into everyday life through its design elements. The architecture encourages inhabitants to immerse themselves in their surroundings, promoting a lifestyle that values environmental stewardship. The removable panels are a particularly innovative feature, allowing users to customize their interaction with nature according to their preferences and needs.

Furthermore, the client’s specific requirements are addressed by including features that are essential for comfortable living without sacrificing sustainability. The wood stove serves as an effective method for heating, while the design integrates systems for greywater management, allowing for responsible water use. These considerations reflect a comprehensive understanding of the essential balance between modern convenience and ecological responsibility.

The use of innovative technologies and practices in "A Shelter Between Worlds" exemplifies a progressive approach to architecture, where every decision made during the design process aligns with broader principles of sustainability and user engagement. By fostering a deeper relationship between humans and their environment, this project stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to reshape how we think about our homes and their place in the world.

For those interested in gaining further insights into this architectural project, I encourage you to explore the detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs presented. By examining these elements, you can appreciate the thought process and design ideas that underpin "A Shelter Between Worlds," and understand how this project exemplifies a modern response to the challenges of sustainable living.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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