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Floating Concrete Units Enhancing Community Connection by the Lake

Author:
Olwia Gałwa
Floating Concrete Units Enhancing Community Connection by the Lake
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Floating concrete units provide sustainable living solutions by the lakeside, incorporating solar modules for energy efficiency and adaptable spaces for both work and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating units rest on concrete floats with integrated water and waste management.
02
Design features movable blinds equipped with solar modules for energy efficiency.
03
Adaptable spaces seamlessly shift from workspace to bedroom using multifunctional furniture.
04
Units are oriented to maximize views of the lake, enhancing the connection with nature.
05
Modular construction promotes the development of community-focused living environments.

"ABSIDIS CIVITATEM" is an architectural design that addresses modern housing challenges through the concept of a floating unit. Located by the coastal lake Jamno, the design connects with the history of the nearby village, known for its roots in the Middle Ages. The overall concept balances contemporary living needs while respecting the historical context of the region.

Design Concept

The project brings together elements of sacred and everyday life, using the simple shape of a traditional church as a central idea. This choice honors the cultural significance of the church while also adding depth to the design. The form of the building encourages a sense of community, reflecting the social role that churches have historically played.

Functionality and Adaptability

A key aspect is the ability to adapt to the users' needs. The design features a flexible workspace that combines a desk and armchairs with a casual area that includes a sofa made from mattresses. This practical setup allows for easy shifts between working and living environments. The desk and chairs slide into the wall, making the best use of available space. The sofa can also be converted into a bed, offering more versatility for residents.

Sustainability and Utility

The building rests on a concrete float that includes a tank for water and waste management, promoting independence and environmental responsibility. Movable blinds with solar panels contribute to energy efficiency, ensuring the unit is less reliant on outside energy sources. Together, these features provide a comfortable living experience while addressing sustainability concerns.

Community Connection

The design emphasizes orientation, with glass walls facing the lake to enhance the scenic views. This layout creates a direct link between indoor and outdoor spaces. Concrete floats serve as pathways that connect the units, supporting interactions among residents. This community-focused feature echoes the historical function of churches, enhancing social ties in the living environment.

Sliding ladders offer access to mezzanine areas and add another layer of functionality to the interior. This design detail optimizes vertical space and reflects a thoughtful approach to residential living.

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Enter an open architecture
competition now

Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Open architecture competitions

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    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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Prize Monetary award
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Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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