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Floating Bamboo Structures Elevating Community Resilience in Flood-Prone Areas

Authors:
Herbert Banog, Micol Licastro Callipo
Floating Bamboo Structures Elevating Community Resilience in Flood-Prone Areas

Project in-detail

Elevated on a floating foundation, this micro home utilizes engineered bamboo and wooden cladding to provide sustainable housing solutions for communities vulnerable to flooding.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design allows homes to float during flood events.
02
Engineered bamboo provides a sustainable and resilient structural framework.
03
Large windows ensure optimal natural light and ventilation.
04
Community-centric layout promotes social interactions among residents.
05
Wooden cladding reflects traditional Filipino craftsmanship in modern application.
Kubo is a micro home project located in Bulacan, Philippines, designed with the intent to provide sustainable, affordable housing for communities facing environmental challenges, particularly flooding. This architectural initiative embodies a blend of modern design principles and traditional Filipino elements, with a strong focus on resilience and community integration. The project emphasizes the importance of local materials, functionality, and cultural authenticity in its design approach.

Sustainable Living Through Innovative Design

The project utilizes engineered bamboo as the primary structural material due to its strength, lightweight properties, and renewable nature. This choice of material not only enhances the durability of the homes but also aligns with sustainable building practices. Wooden cladding is employed for exterior finishes, ensuring a connection to traditional techniques while providing insulation and aesthetic value. Reinforced concrete serves as the foundation material, ensuring stability during adverse weather conditions, while metal sheets are used for roofing to enhance weather resistance and provide an efficient means of water drainage.

Kubo distinguishes itself through its adaptive design to flooding scenarios. The homes are constructed on raised foundations, allowing them to float during flood events. This unique approach not only ensures safety but also minimizes environmental disruption. The organic "S" shape of the homes aids in promoting airflow and natural cooling, critical in the humid climate of the Philippines. Large windows facilitate natural light penetration, enhancing indoor living conditions while reducing energy consumption.

Community-Centric Architecture

The arrangement of Kubo homes is designed to foster a sense of community. By clustering multiple units, the design encourages interaction among residents while maintaining individual privacy. This community-focused layout supports traditional Filipino values, where interconnectedness plays a vital role in social fabric. The efficient use of space within each unit allows for functional living areas, promoting a practical lifestyle without sacrificing comfort.

The project's architects have prioritized creating spaces that reflect cultural heritage while addressing modern living requirements. The integration of natural materials and forms reflects an understanding of local construction techniques, ensuring that the design resonates with its geographic and cultural context.

Explore the Project in Depth

For a comprehensive understanding of the project, including architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas, interested readers are encouraged to explore the Kubo project presentation in greater detail. This will provide further insights into the architectural decisions and innovative solutions implemented within this micro home initiative.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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