Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Floating Habitat Crafted from Sustainable Wooden Panels and Solar Energy Solutions

Authors:
Jovana Stefanović, Viktorija Čeliković, Željko Mijušković, Nikola Stanišić
Floating Habitat Crafted from Sustainable Wooden Panels and Solar Energy Solutions

Project in-detail

Built on a buoyant structure utilizing custom solar panels and wooden sandwich panels, this residence redefines urban living along the waterways of Belgrade, offering a harmonious blend of sustainability and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes custom solar panels integrated into the design for efficient energy capture.
02
Features a buoyant foundation that adapts to changing water levels, enhancing structural resilience.
03
Incorporates wooden sandwich panels that provide both insulation and aesthetic warmth.
04
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and a distinctive visual texture.
05
Includes communal gathering spaces to promote social interaction among residents and visitors.
The Aquaville project represents a thoughtful approach to architectural design that reimagines urban living along the waterways of Belgrade, Serbia. This innovative architectural concept combines functionality, sustainability, and community engagement, creating a unique living environment that responds to the needs of modern urban life. Positioned along the banks of the River Sava and the Danube, Aquaville is more than just a housing solution; it seeks to revitalize the waterfront, enhancing both aesthetic quality and social interaction.

The core function of the Aquaville project is to provide a series of floating residential units that offer comfortable living while promoting a connection with nature. This design recognizes the significance of water in urban identity and aims to foster a renewed relationship between residents and their environment. The project emphasizes communal spaces, encouraging social interaction among residents while also inviting the public to engage with the waterfront area. By doing so, Aquaville not only addresses individual housing needs but also enhances the cultural and social fabric of the neighborhood.

At the heart of the design are several important components that contribute to its overall effectiveness and appeal. The architectural layout features an organic form that transitions seamlessly between indoor and outdoor spaces. The design incorporates open floor plans that allow natural light to flood the interiors, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere. The use of high-performance materials is critical to the structural integrity and sustainability of the units. Materials such as wooden sandwich panels provide insulation while contributing to a warm aesthetic, while the structural frame ensures stability and adaptability to fluctuating water levels.

A standout feature of Aquaville is its integration of renewable energy solutions. The custom-designed solar panels are strategically placed to maximize energy efficiency, allowing the project to operate sustainably. This focus on environmental responsibility is a vital aspect of the design ethos, which seeks to minimize the ecological footprint of urban living. Another significant material used in the construction is expanded polystyrene (EPS), known for its excellent insulating properties and impressive recyclability. This choice reflects a commitment to sustainability, aligning with contemporary architectural trends that prioritize eco-friendly practices.

The unique design approaches manifest in the project’s adaptability and resilience. The floating structure allows for adjustments to changing water levels, enhancing safety and operational longevity. This innovative solution addresses the challenges posed by climate change, presenting a model for future waterfront developments across similarly vulnerable urban areas. Furthermore, the architectural aesthetic, which is informed by local cultural references, instills a sense of belonging and identity for its users, reinforcing the connection between residents and their community.

As you explore the presentation of the Aquaville project, you will uncover a wealth of architectural plans and sections that illustrate the intricate design details and functional aspects of this ambitious endeavor. The architectural designs provide insights into the spatial relationships and user experiences envisioned within this project. Architectural ideas encompassed in Aquaville reflect a modern interpretation of habitat that emphasizes sustainability, community, and a respectful relationship with the environment.

For those interested in innovative urban architecture, the Aquaville project serves as a compelling case study for contemporary adaptations of living spaces in response to climate and social needs. We encourage readers to delve deeper into the project presentation to fully appreciate the nuances of its architectural vision and the implications it may have for future urban housing designs.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy