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Floating Habitat Crafted from Composite Foam with Waterproofing Layers for Sustainable Coastal Living

Authors:
Tzu-hsien Yu, 姿含 周
Floating Habitat Crafted from Composite Foam with Waterproofing Layers for Sustainable Coastal Living

Project in-detail

Floating structures constructed from lightweight composite foam and reinforced with durable waterproofing layers create a resilient and adaptive living environment for communities facing rising sea levels.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating units constructed from lightweight composite foam to enhance buoyancy and resilience.
02
Integrated waterproofing layers ensure durability against harsh marine environments.
03
Hexagonal layout promotes community interaction and efficient spatial usage.
04
Solar energy systems incorporated for self-sufficiency in power generation.
05
Rainwater catchment systems enable sustainable water management for residents.
Marine Drifter is an architectural project designed to address the challenges of climate change through innovative, buoyant living spaces. This project focuses on creating a resilient habitat in coastal areas threatened by rising sea levels. Situated beneath a bridge, the design showcases a unique approach to residential living, merging human habitation with environmental considerations. The project’s primary function is to provide sustainable living conditions that adapt dynamically to aquatic environments, thereby promoting community resilience in the face of ecological threats.

Unique Design Approaches

The Marine Drifter project distinguishes itself with its hexagonal unit arrangement, optimizing spatial efficiency and promoting social connectivity. Each unit is designed to float, utilizing composite foam materials that not only ensure structural integrity but also guarantee buoyancy. This approach redefines the traditional concept of housing by integrating individual living spaces within a cohesive, communal framework. The floating structures are interconnected, allowing residents to easily navigate between units and shared facilities.

This design emphasizes durability, with waterproofing layers spanning 62 layers to withstand harsh climatic conditions. Sustainable technologies play a key role in the project, featuring solar energy systems and water management strategies, including rainwater collection and atmospheric condensation. These elements are integral to maintaining an energy-efficient and self-sufficient living environment.

Integration of Community and Nature

The project's layout fosters community interaction through dedicated communal spaces and green areas, essential for promoting social engagement and well-being. Residents are encouraged to participate in shared activities, enhancing community bonds while engaging with nature. The strategic placement of communal facilities, such as recreational areas and gardens, embodies a commitment to promoting a sustainable lifestyle.

Marine Drifter serves as a model for future architectural endeavors focused on resilient, adaptive living solutions. It addresses pressing environmental concerns while redefining the notion of community in a rapidly changing world.

For further exploration, please review the architectural plans, sections, and designs that detail this innovative project. These elements provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that underpin the Marine Drifter concept.
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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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