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Floating Habitat Constructed with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Sustainable Water Management Systems

Floating Habitat Constructed with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Sustainable Water Management Systems
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Comprising cross-laminated timber panels and a floating design, this compact dwelling integrates sustainable water management systems while maximizing comfort in a marine environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed on a floating platform, allowing for direct interaction with the marine environment.
02
Incorporates a slimline rainwater tank for efficient water management and conservation.
03
Features Kingspan Dri-Design panels that mimic the textures of aquatic life.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for enhanced strength and sustainability.
05
Employs tubular skylights to maximize natural light while minimizing energy use.

## Overview
Mare Nostro is a 25m² dwelling positioned on a platform at sea, designed with a focus on sustainable housing. This project incorporates advanced sustainability protocols aimed at enhancing energy efficiency, optimizing water usage, and providing comfort in a marine environment. The design integrates principles from marine ecosystems, reflecting the dynamics of natural forms and textures throughout.

## Spatial Configuration and Versatility
The interior layout of the dwelling is characterized by efficient utilization of space, consisting of a multifunctional living/kitchen area, a sleeping area with flexible configurations, and a bathroom. The design articulates two distinct settings—daytime and nighttime—promoting social interaction while ensuring privacy. This adaptability ensures that the space can meet various user needs in different contexts. Sections AA and BB illustrate the effective use of natural light and ventilation, optimizing each area’s functionality while maintaining aesthetic harmony.

## Materiality and Environmental Integration
Mare Nostro employs a combination of innovative materials that contribute to both performance and aesthetic value. The structure is anchored on a wooden platform made of cross-laminated timber (CLT), providing stability and warmth. External cladding with Kingspan Dri-Design Panels creates dynamic visual effects echoing aquatic life, while large sections of tempered glass on the south façade facilitate natural light and prominent views of the water. Additional features such as a slimline rainwater tank for water management and Kingspan QuadCore LEC panels for high thermal insulation further underscore the project's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsiveness.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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