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Floating Community Habitat Constructed With Eco-Composite Panels and Sustainable Timber Shingles

Author:
Johny Vincent
Floating Community Habitat Constructed With Eco-Composite Panels and Sustainable Timber Shingles

Project in-detail

Constructed from eco-composite panels and charred timber shingles, this floating community habitat integrates sustainable design principles while offering multifunctional spaces for living and cultural engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with eco-composite materials that enhance sustainability.
02
Features a floating design that connects residents to the surrounding water.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Incorporates flexible residential units adaptable to changing community needs.
05
Integrates systems for recycling and composting within the habitat’s infrastructure.
The "Chrysalis: Space of Life" project is an innovative architectural design situated near Snæfellsjökull in Iceland. It is a multi-functional habitat that encompasses residential living, community engagement, and sustainable practices. The design aims to create a balanced relationship between the built environment and the natural ecosystem, emphasizing regeneration and harmonious living.

The primary function of the project is to serve as a communal hub, integrating various aspects of daily life. This includes housing units, cultural spaces, marketplaces, and work environments, offering a diverse range of services for its inhabitants. The layout promotes connectivity between different sections, allowing for seamless movement and interaction among community members.

Designing with sustainability as a core principle, "Chrysalis" utilizes eco-friendly materials and employs innovative construction techniques. The architectural form reflects organic shapes, mimicking natural elements. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic value of the project but also contributes to wind resistance and thermal efficiency.

Unique Design Approaches

One key aspect of the "Chrysalis" project is its focus on a circular economy. Integrating systems for recycling, composting, and energy generation enhances its self-sufficiency and reduces environmental impact. This design fosters an understanding of resource management and encourages the local community to engage with sustainable practices.

The project also features a floating design that interacts with the surrounding water environment. This architectural choice not only serves aesthetic purposes but facilitates activities related to harvesting marine resources and promotes research in sustainability. The emphasis on water as a design element allows for a continuous connection between residents and the natural landscape.

Integration with Local Context

The project emphasizes the importance of local materials, potentially incorporating natural stones and eco-friendly composites sourced from the surrounding area. Such material choices not only align with ecological principles but also create a sense of identity that reflects the region’s heritage.

The architectural layout includes various communal areas, such as health facilities, markets, and space modules for cultural expressions. These elements work together to promote social interaction while accommodating diverse needs within the community. The design offers flexibility to adapt residential units based on shifting demands, ensuring long-term viability.

For further details on the "Chrysalis: Space of Life" project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas that elaborate on its innovative design. By understanding the comprehensive layout and its unique components, one can appreciate the full scope of this thoughtful architectural undertaking.
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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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