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Floating Community Built With Modular Hexagonal Structures and Eco-Friendly Materials

Author:
Alexander Carolan
Floating Community Built With Modular Hexagonal Structures and Eco-Friendly Materials

Project in-detail

Floating above the waves, a series of modular hexagonal units crafted from eco-friendly materials create a vibrant community that redefines coastal living through integrated housing and agriculture.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project features a modular design allowing for dynamic reconfiguration based on resident needs.
02
Vertical farming modules are integrated into the living spaces, promoting food self-sufficiency within the community.
03
Charred wooden shingles are utilized for exterior finishes, providing durability and a unique aesthetic.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems complement the architecture, ensuring sustainable water management in a marine environment.
05
The use of hexagonal units enhances spatial efficiency while fostering social interaction among residents.
The Co-Op Ocean project represents a thoughtful response to emerging challenges faced by global communities in the context of climate change and urbanization. This innovative architectural design envisions a modular habitat that floats on water, aimed at addressing the housing crisis and the need for sustainable living solutions in areas increasingly affected by rising sea levels. The project combines residential, commercial, and agricultural functionalities, creating a self-sufficient community centered on cooperation and resource sharing.

At its core, the Co-Op Ocean project exemplifies a new way of living by taking advantage of the oceanic environment. With its modular structure, the design allows for versatility in spatial arrangements, catering to the diverse needs of the community members. Each unit is thoughtfully designed to promote interaction, making the most of both communal and private space. Vibrant color-coding assists in distinguishing different functional areas, encouraging a lively and engaging environment while maintaining clear organization.

The architectural design emphasizes a mixed-use approach, integrating farming, living quarters, and workspaces into a cohesive whole. The farming modules, painted in soft greens, are equipped for vertical gardens and aquaponics, making them suitable for organic food production, a vital consideration in promoting self-sustainability. Housing units, characterized by inviting colors, offer flexible living spaces that foster community bonding while also allowing for privacy. Furthermore, designated workshop areas, marked in blue, encourage entrepreneurship and creativity, illustrating the project's commitment to supporting local economies.

A stark feature of the Co-Op Ocean project is its commitment to sustainable practices, particularly in water management. The design employs advanced filtration systems and rainwater collection methods, ensuring that the community can thrive in a marine setting. This attention to sustainability extends beyond water management; throughout the project, the use of eco-friendly materials is evident. Steel provides strength to the overall structure, while glass façades enhance natural light and create a sense of openness. Wood is employed in interior spaces, offering warmth and a human touch that complements the modern design elements.

In terms of visual impact, the architectural presentations vividly capture the essence of living on water. The floating structure, characterized by its organic shapes and articulated volumes, blends seamlessly with the ocean's landscape. The technical architectural plans and sections reveal a comprehensive understanding of structural integrity while allowing for aesthetic appeal. These design elements illustrate thoughtful attention to the dynamics of wind and water, resulting in a robust yet elegant form.

What sets the Co-Op Ocean project apart is not only its ability to adapt to changing conditions but also its philosophy of community-driven living. This design encourages collaboration among residents, promoting a sense of ownership within the environment. By prioritizing connectivity and interaction, the project suggests that residential spaces can serve as platforms for social engagement and collective problem-solving.

In exploring innovative architectural ideas and solutions, the Co-Op Ocean project offers much to consider. Its unique approach to modular living, sustainable practices, and community integration provides a framework for future developments in similar contexts. Readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the architectural plans and sections associated with this project, as reviewing these elements will offer valuable insights into the careful thought and design processes involved in creating such an impactful architectural statement.
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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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