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Floating Habitat with Ecological Concrete and Charred Wood Finish

Author:
Bruno Leruste
Floating Habitat with Ecological Concrete and Charred Wood Finish
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Constructed from ecological concrete and finished with charred wood, this floating habitat adapts to rising water levels while offering a sustainable living solution.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed on a central pillar, allowing for stability in fluctuating water levels.
02
Utilizes ecological concrete, specifically designed for floating structures.
03
Incorporates Shou Sugi Ban for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
04
Features a low-calorie sauna that operates at just 50 degrees Celsius.
05
Includes a French bidet for efficient water use in personal hygiene.

The Cube on the Water is designed to meet the pressing challenges of rising sea levels, which are projected to affect many coastal communities in the near future. This project offers a sustainable living solution that adapts to changing environmental conditions. It features a floating design that relies on a central support pillar, providing stability even as water levels fluctuate. This innovative approach aims to create a functional and inviting living space that addresses urgent climate concerns.

Structural Integrity

The Cube is built with ecological concrete, which is suitable for floating constructions and ensures strength and stability. This choice helps the structure withstand the unique demands of a water-based living environment. The upper parts of the Cube are made from burnt wood, known as Shou Sugi Ban. This material not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the building’s resistance to moisture and decay.

Functional Organization

Inside the Cube, the layout is carefully planned into specific areas for different activities. Each space is designed to meet practical needs while considering emotional comfort. For instance, the kitchen can accommodate quick meal prep or more relaxed dining with family and friends. There are also dedicated work and rest zones for productivity and relaxation, significantly improving the quality of life within a compact area.

Sustainable Energy Solutions

Energy usage within the Cube is managed with two complementary systems aimed at sustainability. A wood burner located in the central pillar provides heat during colder months. It operates on wood pellets, making use of renewable resources. Additionally, a turbine placed underneath the house converts flowing water into electricity, supplying power for lights and other important functions. This setup offers a reliable solution to meet energy needs while being environmentally friendly.

Design Detail

The Cube incorporates thoughtful features that emphasize resource efficiency. For personal hygiene, a French bidet combined with a shower function optimizes water use without sacrificing effectiveness. Furthermore, the design includes a low-calorie sauna that operates at a maximum temperature of 50 degrees Celsius, drawing only 5 liters of water. These features highlight the Cube's focus on practical living while promoting well-being in a design that is both functional and considerate of its surroundings.

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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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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.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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