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Floating Homes Constructed with Canvas Facades and Sustainable Wood Materials Along the Seine

Authors:
Paula Imperatore, Luke Olsen
Floating Homes Constructed with Canvas Facades and Sustainable Wood Materials Along the Seine

Project in-detail

Constructed on buoyant platforms, the residences utilize canvas facades and sustainable wood materials to harmonize with the Seine while providing essential housing for the community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed on buoyant platforms, allowing for adaptability to water level changes.
02
Utilizes canvas facades for lightweight and flexible design.
03
Incorporates sustainable wood materials, emphasizing eco-friendly practices.
04
Features communal spaces integrated with residential units to foster interaction.
05
Designed to enhance resident engagement with the Seine River environment.
The “Seine Je T'aime” project introduces a novel architectural approach to affordable housing situated along the Seine River in Paris. This initiative focuses on the development of floating houses on artificial islands, aiming to address urban housing challenges while enhancing community interaction with the river. The design fosters sustainable living by utilizing eco-friendly materials while integrating seamlessly into the natural landscape.

Site Functionality

The primary function of the "Seine Je T'aime" project is to create livable, low-impact residential units that respond to the spatial and environmental characteristics of the Seine. The floating houses not only provide essential housing for residents but also serve as a model for future developments that prioritize ecological standards and community-oriented environments. The incorporation of public spaces and parks along the waterfront extends the functionality beyond just residential needs, promoting social interactions among residents and visitors.

Unique Design Approaches

A distinctive aspect of this architectural design is its focus on lightweight structures that adapt to the existing topography and hydrology of the river. Utilizing materials such as wood, canvas, glass, and steel, the project emphasizes sustainability and durability. The light-weight floating platforms allow for dynamic arrangements of the housing units, which can adapt to fluctuating water levels and changing community requirements. This flexibility stands in contrast to traditional fixed housing, addressing contemporary demands for mobility and adaptability in urban living.

Integration with Nature

The architectural design prioritizes an intimate connection with the surrounding natural environment. By positioning homes directly on the water, the project encourages residents to engage with the Seine, enhancing their quality of life. The use of ample glass facades provides unobstructed views of the river and invites natural light into living spaces, promoting well-being and a sense of openness. Green spaces are incorporated throughout the site, facilitating ecological balance and providing recreational areas for residents.

For further exploration of this project, readers are encouraged to review architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs to gain deeper insights into the innovative ideas that shape the "Seine Je T'aime" project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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