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Floating Edible Gardens and Green Roofs in Sustainable Living Environments

Author:
Luming Xiao
Floating Edible Gardens and Green Roofs in Sustainable Living Environments

Project in-detail

The integration of a floating edible garden with a green roof system enhances biodiversity while providing a sustainable living environment in this contemporary residence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Innovative floating edible garden integrates food production with habitat creation.
02
Green roofing system enhances insulation and supports local biodiversity.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength while minimizing environmental impact.
04
Charred wooden shingles offer fire resistance and natural aesthetics.
05
Multi-directional glazing maximizes natural light and reduces energy consumption.

### Overview

EcoShelter is situated on the island of Santorini and functions as a small-scale single-family residence designed to integrate modern architectural elements with sustainable practices. The project seeks to address contemporary socio-environmental challenges, such as climate change and resource depletion, by promoting eco-conscious living that harmonizes human dwellings with the natural landscape.

### Spatial Strategy and User Interaction

The design of EcoShelter incorporates multiple strategies to enhance natural daylighting and promote well-being for its occupants. Strategic placement of multi-directional windows and overhangs minimizes glare while maximizing sunlight penetration. These features improve indoor quality of life and reduce reliance on artificial lighting. Additionally, multifunctional spaces are incorporated into the floor plan to support varied activities, facilitating both private and communal interactions.

### Material Utilization and Ecological Integration

The project utilizes a carefully selected range of materials to enhance functionality and sustainability. Reinforced concrete provides durability, while thermal insulation is employed for energy efficiency. Sustainable wood finishes emphasize a natural aesthetic in line with eco-friendly practices. The integration of glazed windows facilitates passive solar design, augmenting daylight and offering scenic views. Noteworthy elements include a green roof system, which enhances insulation and manages stormwater, along with a floating edible plant installation that supports marine biodiversity while providing food for residents.

This ecological approach extends to the design's interaction with local wildlife, ensuring the preservation of habitats and promoting biodiversity. Overall, EcoShelter exemplifies a commitment to sustainable living by fostering a respectful coexistence with the surrounding environment.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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Chair
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Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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